Vincent Tan confirms manager decision ahead of huge Cardiff City announcement
The Bluebirds owner has had to make a similar call with his sister club, KV Kortrijk
Vincent Tan is preparing to install two new managers in the space of a week, with KV Kortrijk having announced the appointment of Michiel Jonckheere.
Tan has suffered the ignominy of seeing his two football clubs — Cardiff City and KVK — both relegated from their respective divisions, with both teams being left managerless as we head into the summer. However, Kortrijk, whose managing director is also Cardiff CEO Ken Choo, have moved swiftly in recent weeks to make radical changes to the hierarchy ahead of the club's campaign in the Belgian second division.
A fortnight ago, KVK appointed Jelle Schelstraete as operational director of football.
Meanwhile, Nils Vanneste has been tasked with the role of sporting director as the club attempt to bolster its football leadership structure. Join the Cardiff City breaking news and top stories WhatsApp community
The above is just what Cardiff fans have been hoping for in the Welsh capital.
Now, Kortrijk have announced the appointment of Konckheere as manager.
He takes over from Bernd Storck, who couldn't avoid the drop after taking over earlier this year.
Konckheere turned out for Kortrijk during his playing days before taking his first steps into coaching with the club's academy.
He then moved to KV Oostende's academy before becoming first-team assistant manager there.
The former midfielder, 35, has experience at Club Brugge, too, both in the youth setup and as part of the senior staff.
"We are happy that we can appoint an ambitious coach with Michiel," said Vanneste.
"He knows the club and the competition. The red-white identity suits him like a glove.
"Michiel knows what is expected at KVK and will ensure the necessary cohesion between players and fans."
It's set to be a busy week for Tan, Cardiff fans will hope.
The Bluebirds owner has been handed the board's recommendation and it is hoped a decision will be communicated this week with regards to appointing Omer Riza's permanent successor. Sign up to our daily Cardiff City newsletter here.