Burnley has confirmed the appointment of Nicky Hayen as their new head coach after agreeing to a three-year contract with the Belgian. The 45-year-old arrives from Genk, replacing Scott Parker, who left the club by mutual agreement at the end of April following the Clarets’ relegation from the Premier League.
Speaking after his appointment, Hayen said he was delighted to join a club with a rich tradition and passionate supporters. He admitted many fans may not know much about him yet but stressed that it is now his responsibility to earn their confidence through his work.
Before selecting Hayen, Burnley explored other options. The club held discussions with the Football Association of Wales regarding Craig Bellamy, but negotiations broke down over the proposed coaching staff. Former Wolves manager Rob Edwards also declined an approach from Turf Moor.
New boss prepares for first season at Turf Moor
Hayen will immediately link up with Burnley during their pre-season tour of the United States. His first official match in charge will come in the Carabao Cup first round against Notts County on 8 August before the Clarets begin their Championship campaign at home against fellow relegated side West Ham the following weekend.
Chairman Alan Pace explained that the appointment reflects the club’s long-term strategy. He described Hayen as a coach capable of creating a clear playing identity while improving individual players, adding that Burnley remain committed to building a sustainable model with the objective of returning to the Premier League on solid foundations.
Hayen arrives with experience from Belgium and Wales
Burnley enjoyed six consecutive Premier League seasons between 2016 and 2022, largely under Sean Dyche, but since then have alternated between promotion and relegation under Vincent Kompany and Scott Parker. The club now hopes Hayen can provide greater stability.
The Belgian has spent almost his entire managerial career in his homeland, apart from a spell with Welsh club Haverfordwest County during the 2021-22 campaign. He guided Club Brugge to the Belgian league title in 2023-24 and later helped the club reach the Champions League knockout stage before they were eliminated by Aston Villa in the round of 16. Although Brugge dismissed him in December after a defeat to Sint Truiden, he quickly returned to management by taking charge of Genk, whom he led to seventh place in the Belgian top division last season.
Hayen is expected to adapt quickly to English football, having already worked in Wales and gained experience with the language and football culture. At 45, he also brings a broad network of contacts across European football, although his arrival comes shortly before Burnley’s opening pre-season fixture, leaving limited time to prepare for the new campaign.