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Marc Overmars leaves Royal Antwerp sporting director role for health reasons

2 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 11:39 AM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Marc Overmars leaves Royal Antwerp sporting director role for health reasons

Summary

Marc Overmars has announced his departure from the role of sporting director at Royal Antwerp effective immediately. The 53-year-old cited health concerns as the primary driver for his decision, noting that his energy levels are depleted following the recent transfer window. Overmars confirmed he is no longer able to maintain the demands of a high-pressure professional environment, stating that medical advice indicates a significant risk if he continues in his current capacity. While contract extension discussions were in progress, the former Arsenal and Barcelona player chose to prioritize his recovery over his professional duties. He intends to mark his formal departure from the club before the upcoming home match against Union Saint-Gilloise at the Bosuilstadion on September 20.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Marc Overmars is stepping down as Royal Antwerp sporting director due to health reasons.
•The 53-year-old cited a depleted energy level following the conclusion of the transfer window.
•Overmars will officially depart the club before the match against Union Saint-Gilloise on September 20.
•Medical professionals advised Overmars to cease professional activities to avoid further health complications.

Latest Updates

12:08 PMYahoo Sports — Ex-Arsenal star Marc Overmars leaves Royal Antwerp role over health issues
11:39 AMYahoo Sports — Overmars resigns as Royal Antwerp sports director due to health issues
10:33 AMYahoo Sports — Overmars steps down as Antwerp sporting director for health reasons

What they're saying

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Soccer great Marc Overmars is stepping down as Royal Antwerp's sports director due to health issues. Overmars, who joined the Belgian club in 2022, explained his decision in a letter to supporters published on Wednesday as he mentioned “all the fatigue that has built up over the years and the enormous amount of stress.” “You all know that my health has not been optimal,” he wrote.
— Yahoo Sports

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Marc Overmars has announced he will be stepping down from his job as sporting director at Royal Antwerp for health reasons. Dutchman Overmars, who won the Premier League and FA Cup double with Arsenal in 1998 before joining Barcelona, said in an open letter to supporters his “energy is completely depleted” after the transfer window.
— Yahoo Sports