Gent's head coach, Wouter Vrancken, has opened up about the tough summer experienced by Super Eagles defender Jordan Torunarigha, who has been the subject of transfer speculation linking him with top leagues.
Torunarigha has been a standout player for Gent in recent seasons, amassing 105 appearances, four goals, and five assists since joining the club. His consistent performances have drawn attention from major European clubs, including Hoffenheim, Stuttgart, Leeds United, Torino, and Crystal Palace.
The 27-year-old's interest in a potential move led him to express a desire to leave Gent, a decision that didn't sit well with the club. As a result, Torunarigha was left out of several pre-season matches and the team's UEFA Conference League qualifiers.
However, coach Vrancken decided to bring Torunarigha back into the fold during Gent's home match against Silkeborg in the second leg of their UEFA Conference League qualifiers.
Prior to the match, Vrancken addressed the situation, acknowledging the difficult summer Torunarigha has endured due to the ongoing transfer talks.
"Torunarigha has been through a challenging period. He’s admitted that himself," Vrancken said. "Being here physically, but mentally elsewhere, was tough for him. Trying to push through during preparation didn’t help."
Vrancken added that despite the transfer situation, Torunarigha expressed a strong desire to refocus and rejoin the team.
"He really wanted to put the transfer talk aside and concentrate on being part of our squad again," Vrancken continued. "If he’s feeling ready and committed, we absolutely need to make room for his talents."
Torunarigha made his return to the pitch on Thursday, coming off the bench to play 54 minutes, including extra time, in Gent's 3-1 victory over Silkeborg in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers.
