Philippe Clement tells Hearts why Wouter Vrancken is 'perfectly aligned' for Jambos joy as target predicted
The former Rangers boss has provided a glowing review of the new Hearts manager.
Former Rangers boss Philippe Clement senses Wouter Vrancken will be keen on equalling or bettering the second-placed finish Hearts achieved in the Premiership last season.
The Belgian who managed at Ibrox between 2023-2025 has watched on as his countryman takes charge at Tynecastle. Vrancken has replaced Derek McInnes, who has been named Rangers manager, after impressive work in Belgium. Most recently he’s clinched European football with Sint-Truiden and his Gorgie era kicks off in Champions League second round qualifying versus Sturm Graz of Austria.
Clement is aware of recruitment software Jamestown Analytics’ impact at Hearts and reckons Vrancken can work in tandem with that. His experience in Govan left him with a positive impression of the capital-based side and believes continued success at the top end of the table will be why the ex-Sint-Truiden and Genk boss has opted for Scotland.
What has Philippe Clement said about new Hearts manager?
Now Norwich City manager in the English Championship, Clement told HBVL: “It is a great club in Edinburgh, which I personally find a very nice and pleasant city. There are many supporters and you really feel that the club is alive. The atmosphere is always fantastic. It is clearly a club with ambition. Last season they were so close to the title. They want to equal that this year, or even do better.
“I have no insight into the budgets or investments. That will determine how big the gap with Celtic and Rangers still is, because they have had a financial advantage for decades. Although you did see the impact immediately last season, with successful transfers and strong results. I think everyone agrees on that. He likes playing attacking football, which aligns perfectly with the club’s vision. It is a great challenge for him and a logical step in his career.”
Vrancken said of his arrival at Hearts: “I'm looking forward to getting next to the pitch there on the green grass. I had a nice time already with the guys in the training centre and getting to know everybody, so I'm happy to be here. What attracted me was a lot of things, for sure the people.
Wouter Vrancken on becoming Hearts head coach
“I think you always have to find a good connection with the people who will be your boss and the people around you and the staff, because it will always be a mix. I think from people I bring and people I have to work with who are already here and did amazing things last season.
“It was a great season for Hearts also. They showed that they can compete with the Glasgow teams and I'm looking forward to doing this again. They want to keep playing for the prizes above and competing with the Glasgow teams and showing that we don't need the money, but we can be better in other things. Let's hope that we can show it on the pitch also, that we are a good team. All that is for later on. I think I have to focus now on bringing my principles into the team as soon as possible, because it's a short preparation towards the first qualifying for the Champions League, so it will go fast.”