Nicky Hayen’s appointment at Haverfordwest County in the Cymru Premier may have seemed surprising at the time, but in hindsight, it was a step in a remarkable journey. Three years later, he finds himself leading Club Brugge into the knockout stages of the Champions League, preparing to face Aston Villa. His rise has been both swift and impressive, and now his name is being linked with some of Europe’s top managerial positions. Some even suggest he could be a future candidate for a role at Liverpool.
When Hayen arrived in Wales on New Year’s Eve in 2021, few could have predicted the trajectory his career would take. His tenure at Haverfordwest County lasted just a short time, but the impact was undeniable. Those present when his side delivered a dominant 6-1 victory over Cefn Druids may not have foreseen what lay ahead, but for club chairman Rob Edwards, it came as no surprise.
Described as a workaholic, Hayen immersed himself in football analysis and preparation. His days were filled with studying opposition teams, breaking down footage, and meticulously planning strategies. His dedication left a lasting impression on those around him, and his approach to coaching elevated the performance of his players. Rather than overwhelming them with instructions, he provided precise tactical insights and fostered a strong understanding of the game.
His journey to Wales came after years of playing as a defender in Belgium and the Netherlands, followed by coaching and technical director roles, including time in Saudi Arabia. A challenging managerial stint at Waasland-Beveren ended with relegation due to the disruptions of the pandemic. However, an introduction to Edwards through a mutual connection led to an opportunity in Wales. Armed with a UEFA Pro Licence and a compelling vision, he quickly won over the club’s leadership during the interview process.
Once in charge, his impact was immediate. The team, which had been struggling near the bottom of the table, transformed under his leadership, climbing to the edge of the European play-offs within six months. His emphasis on possession-based football was a refreshing departure from the norm in the Welsh top flight. His ability to communicate effectively and earn the trust of his players was key to this success. Despite his calm demeanor, there was an authority in his words that commanded attention.
Adapting to life in west Wales was no challenge for him. Though separated from his family in Belgium, he remained singularly focused on football. He embraced his surroundings without attempting to overhaul them, preferring instead to concentrate on his work. He maintained a disciplined lifestyle, staying away from distractions like alcohol or social media, and kept his attention firmly on the game.
The time at Haverfordwest was always going to be temporary, but when Club Brugge came calling in 2022 with an offer to take charge of their Under-23 side, it was an opportunity too significant to ignore. The move marked the beginning of another chapter, as he soon found himself promoted to the first-team staff. When Ronny Deila departed in early 2023, he stepped in as interim manager, guiding the team to an incredible run of victories and securing the league title in stunning fashion.
The performances under his leadership began attracting attention, with some predicting that top European clubs would take notice. His success in the Champions League has only added to the growing reputation. Brugge navigated a challenging group stage, securing wins over high-profile opponents and earning a place in the knockout rounds by defeating Atalanta convincingly.
Throughout his career, he has remained deeply connected to his roots, often reflecting on personal moments for inspiration. Ahead of key matches, he finds solace in speaking to his late mother, who passed away four years ago. His journey has been built on discipline, dedication, and an ability to bring the best out of his players.
Even after his departure, his time in Wales left a lasting legacy. Haverfordwest County has since built on the foundations he helped establish, qualifying for European competition for the first time in nearly two decades. The club remains proud of the association with him and follows his career with great admiration.
As he continues to rise in European football, the sense is that this is only the beginning. His name is now mentioned among some of the most promising managers in the game, and if he maintains this trajectory, greater opportunities may soon come his way.
