Axel Witsel Nears Emotional Return to Standard Liege After Leaving Atletico Madrid
After concluding his stint with Atletico Madrid, Axel Witsel is preparing for a potential return to his boyhood club, Standard Liege. With his contract ending this summer, the 36-year-old Belgian is reportedly eager to wrap up his playing career in his home country, following in the footsteps of fellow veterans Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld, who also returned to Belgium late in their careers.
Witsel initially rose to prominence at Standard Liege, where he played a crucial role in the club's domestic success, including two league titles and a domestic cup. Over three seasons, he made 130 appearances and scored 32 goals before moving on to major European clubs such as Benfica, Zenit St. Petersburg, Borussia Dortmund, and most recently, Atletico Madrid. In his final season in Spain, he transitioned from central midfield to center-back, featuring in 21 matches and contributing one assist.
The move back to Standard Liege is not just seen as a homecoming but also a strategic step in Witsel’s long-term career plan. He reportedly intends to play for the club before transitioning into a coaching role, signaling his commitment to contributing both on and off the pitch. His wealth of experience and leadership could provide significant value, especially for the development of younger players within the squad.
Fans are expected to welcome Witsel’s return warmly, remembering his successful first spell with the club. Much like Vertonghen and Alderweireld’s influential roles at their respective Belgian clubs, Witsel’s presence is likely to enhance the team's competitiveness and stability while also offering a strong mentoring presence within the locker room.
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