Marc Overmars has stepped down as sporting director of Royal Antwerp FC effective immediately, citing health concerns after spending 2.5 years in the role. The 53-year-old Belgian executive announced his departure through an emotional farewell letter to supporters, ending his involvement with the Belgian club amid mounting physical and mental fatigue.
Health Crisis Forces Immediate Departure
Overmars revealed that accumulated stress from multiple seasons of rebuilding, combined with takeover complications, had pushed his wellbeing to a critical point over the past weekend. "All the fatigue built up over many years and the great deal of stress unfortunately reached a peak," he explained in the letter. His medical team warned of serious consequences if he continued working at the current pace, leaving him no choice but to prioritise recovery.
The executive had originally planned to address supporters after the transfer window closed in early September, with contract extension negotiations already underway. However, his deteriorating condition forced a change of plans. "If I do not listen to my body now, my doctors predict that the chance of a bad outcome is very high," Overmars wrote, describing his energy reserves as "completely gone."
Legacy and Gratitude to Antwerp
Despite the difficult circumstances, Overmars expressed profound affection for the club and city. Under his stewardship, The Great Old achieved notable milestones in Belgian football history. He thanked the Gheysens family ownership, alongside key colleagues Sven and Joachim, for forming a strong leadership team during a transformative period.
Overmars plans to attend Saturday's league match against Union to personally bid farewell to supporters before entering complete rest. He vowed to remain connected to RAFC and Antwerp, promising future appearances at the Bosuil stadium and local establishments. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the Belgian club, which now faces finding replacement leadership during an ongoing restructuring phase.
