Burnley in talks to appoint Genk coach Nicky Hayen as manager
Quick Look
Burnley are in advanced talks to appoint Genk head coach Nicky Hayen as their new manager, with discussions ongoing but the deal not yet finalized.
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Why It Matters
Burnley are looking for a new manager after Scott Parker's departure in April. They previously failed to appoint Craig Bellamy and Rob Edwards reportedly turned down an approach.
Burnley are progressing in talks to appoint Genk head coach Nicky Hayen to fill their managerial vacancy.
Hayen, 45, appears to have become Burnley's number one target following the departure of Scott Parker by mutual consent in April.
Sources have told BBC Sport that discussions are ongoing with Genk regarding the appointment of Hayen, but the deal has not yet been completed.
Hayen previously worked at Welsh side Haverfordwest County between 2021-22 before a spell at Club Brugge that ended when he was sacked in December 2025.
He joined Genk later that month, leading the side to a seventh-placed finish but missing out on European football.
The Clarets previously approached the Football Association of Wales looking to appoint men's national team head coach Craig Bellamy, but the move collapsed during negotiations around the make-up of the backroom staff.
Former Wolves boss Rob Edwards is understood to have turned down an approach from Burnley to replace Parker.
Burnley players are set to head to the United States for pre-season, with friendly matches lined up against FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew and Real Salt Lake.
The Turf Moor side finished 19th in the Premier League last season, suffering immediate relegation back to the Championship.
Open Questions
- Will the deal for Nicky Hayen be completed?
- What will be the impact of the new manager on Burnley's performance?
