Jan Vertonghen's contract with Anderlecht runs until the summer of 2025, but before that time comes, he hopes to still be of value to his team. Vertonghen is currently recovering from an Achilles tendon injury that has kept him sidelined for four months.
The good news for Anderlecht fans is that Jan Vertonghen’s recovery from his Achilles tendon injury is progressing steadily, and the experienced defender hopes to return to the pitch sooner rather than later.
The 37-year-old has been sidelined for four months, a frustrating period for a player who remains highly motivated to continue performing at the top level. Speaking with Het Nieuwsblad, Vertonghen shared cautious optimism about his recovery, reflecting both the challenges he has faced and his determination to return to action.
“Is there improvement? I always have to be cautious with my words because I’ve been positive before, only to suffer a setback in the past month,” Vertonghen admitted. His candid remarks underscore the difficulty of his rehabilitation process. Injuries, particularly to the Achilles tendon, are notoriously tricky to recover from, especially for older players who often face doubts about their ability to regain their best form.
However, Vertonghen remains upbeat and focused on his comeback, drawing strength from his deep-rooted passion for the game and commitment to Anderlecht. “But I am positive at the moment that things will turn out well,” he continued. “The past few weeks have not been smooth sailing. I’m still a footballer, and I very much want to continue being one. When you can’t play and can’t help the team, it really affects you.” His words reflect the emotional toll injuries can take on professional athletes. Being sidelined not only means missing matches but also being unable to contribute to the success of the team, something that weighs heavily on players like Vertonghen, whose leadership and experience are invaluable.
Vertonghen revealed that recent training sessions have been encouraging, offering hope that he is turning a corner in his rehabilitation. “But I trained well today, and I feel very positive. I will be able to help Anderlecht and my teammates again,” he stated confidently. For Anderlecht, having Vertonghen back on the pitch would be a massive boost. His vast experience, composure under pressure, and ability to organize the defense make him a vital figure both on and off the field.
The Belgian defender is currently in his third season with Anderlecht, a period during which he has become one of the team’s leaders. Since returning to Belgium in 2022 after a decorated international career, Vertonghen has embraced the responsibility of guiding a young Anderlecht squad, sharing his knowledge and setting an example through his professionalism. His influence extends beyond his defensive performances he is seen as a mentor to many of the club’s younger players, offering advice and encouragement as they develop.
Vertonghen’s return to Anderlecht was a homecoming of sorts. After leaving Ajax for Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, he enjoyed eight impressive seasons in the Premier League, where he was widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the competition. His next move took him to Benfica, where he continued to compete at a high level in Portugal. Despite receiving offers to continue his career elsewhere, Vertonghen chose to return to Belgium and play for Anderlecht, a decision driven by his desire to contribute to Belgian football and be closer to his family.
The Achilles injury came as a significant setback, as Vertonghen had been an ever-present figure in Anderlecht’s defense before being sidelined. For a club striving to reclaim its place among Belgium’s elite, his absence has been keenly felt. Anderlecht have shown flashes of quality this season but have also lacked consistency at times, particularly in the defensive third. Having Vertonghen back in the heart of the defense would undoubtedly bolster the team’s stability and leadership.
At 37, questions about longevity are inevitable, but Vertonghen remains determined to prove his worth. For him, age is just a number, and his focus is squarely on helping Anderlecht achieve success in the immediate future. “I’m still a footballer, and I very much want to continue being one,” he reiterated, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to the game.
Looking ahead, Vertonghen’s return could not come at a more critical time for Anderlecht. The team is in the thick of the Belgian Pro League season, with ambitions of competing for a top spot and qualifying for European competitions. His experience in high-stakes matches, from Champions League fixtures to international tournaments with Belgium, will be invaluable as Anderlecht navigate the challenges ahead.
For now, the priority remains ensuring Vertonghen completes his recovery without rushing back too soon. Achilles injuries require careful management to prevent reoccurrence, and both the player and club will be cautious as he approaches a full return to fitness. His positivity, however, is a promising sign, and Anderlecht fans can take heart in knowing their captain is on the right track.
As Vertonghen put it: “I will be able to help Anderlecht and my teammates again.” For a player who has spent his entire career leading by example, those words carry weight. Anderlecht will be counting on him not just to shore up the defense but also to inspire the squad as they aim to finish the season on a high.
Vertonghen’s story is a testament to resilience, professionalism, and a love for the game that refuses to fade. If his recovery continues on its current trajectory, his return could provide the spark Anderlecht needs to achieve their goals this season. For now, all eyes remain on the veteran defender as he prepares to make his long-awaited comeback.
