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Belgian Soccer Icon Glen De Boeck Dies at 54 After Brain Hemorrhage
The soccer world is mourning the loss of Glen De Boeck, a revered Belgian international and former Anderlecht captain, who passed away at the age of 54. De Boeck succumbed to a severe brain hemorrhage, which left him in a coma for three days.
The former defender, who earned 36 caps for Belgium, collapsed at his home on Friday and was immediately hospitalized in Antwerp. Despite medical efforts, the damage proved too extensive for recovery.
His family confirmed his passing last night, stating he was surrounded by loved ones. He is survived by his two daughters, Bo and Caro.
De Boeck’s distinguished career began at FC Boom before moving to Mechelen. In 1995, he joined Belgian powerhouse Anderlecht, where he became a prominent figure and captained the team for a decade until a knee injury forced his retirement in 2005.
Following his playing career, De Boeck transitioned into coaching, initially as an assistant at Anderlecht. He then embarked on a managerial career, leading teams such as Cercle Brugge, Germinal Beerschot, and Dutch side VVV-Venlo.
His coaching journey also included stints at Beveren, Mouscron, KV Kortrijk, and Lokeren, with his final managerial role returning him to Kortrijk in 2023. Beyond the sidelines, De Boeck was a familiar face as a pundit on Belgian television.
This year has been marked by profound tragedy for the De Boeck family. Glen’s father, Louis, passed away at 80 earlier this year after a prolonged illness.
In a further devastating turn, his mother, Louisette, suffered a brain hemorrhage and collapsed at her husband’s funeral. She was later diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and passed away a month after her husband.