Hans Vanaken may have been crowned UEFA’s Player of the Match against AS Monaco, but not everyone agrees with the verdict – www.isagoal.com reports.
Former Gent boss Hein Vanhaezebrouck openly challenged UEFA’s choice, insisting Raphael Onyedika deserved the honor instead.
Speaking to Belgian outlet Het Nieuwsblad, Vanhaezebrouck said: “Vanaken certainly deserves that, but for me, it was Onyedika. He was fantastic.”
Club Brugge secured a commanding 4-1 win over Monaco in their Champions League opener, with Onyedika finding the net in the 39th minute.
UEFA’s Technical Observer Group highlighted Vanaken’s goal, assist, and midfield control as reasons for his selection.
Vanhaezebrouck countered by praising Onyedika’s constant movement and vertical passing, pointing out how much of Brugge’s play flowed through him.
“Onyedika wasn’t given any space, but he always managed to get free. Everything started with him,” Vanhaezebrouck explained.
The Nigerian midfielder’s night wasn’t without controversy as frustration showed when he was taken off in the 81st minute.
Onyedika walked straight to the bench without acknowledging teammate Lynnt Audoor, who came on as his replacement.
Vanhaezebrouck admitted the substitution could have been handled differently, suggesting clearer communication might have prevented the awkward scene.
Despite the flash of temper, Onyedika remains a crucial figure this season, starting nine of Brugge’s twelve games so far, with a goal and an assist to his name.