Union Berlin strengthens defence with signing of Belgian centre-back Zeno Van Den Bosch on free transfer

The signing

Union Berlin announced on Monday the acquisition of Zeno Van Den Bosch from Royal Antwerp on a free transfer. The 22-year-old centre-back has agreed a long-term contract, with German reports suggesting a deal until 2029. His arrival is the latest move in a summer of defensive restructuring for the Bundesliga side, which had already re-signed Marvin Friedrich from Borussia Mönchengladbach earlier in the window. The Belgian fills the gap left by the departures of Danilho Doekhi and Diogo Leite, whose contracts expired at the season's end. He joins Stanley Nsoki, a fellow Belgian, in the Berlin squad.

Van Den Bosch's path to Berlin

A product of Antwerp's academy, Van Den Bosch made his top-flight debut in January 2023 and quickly cemented a starting role. His time at the Belgian club yielded a varied tally of appearances: Belgian outlet 7sur7 counts 140 matches, while German N-tv cites 113 competitive games. He contributed three goals and three assists, winning the Pro League title, the Belgian Cup, and the Supercup along the way. The defender also featured in three Champions League matches, gaining valuable European experience. Standing 1.91 metres tall, he was predominantly deployed on the right side of a back three, a profile that attracted Union scouts who had monitored him since the winter.

What the club says

“Zeno is a young player with great potential who can help us immediately thanks to the experience he has already gained. He brings height and strength in challenges, as well as good mobility. To be a regular starter for a top Belgian team at his age requires maturity, discipline, and leadership qualities alongside talent.”

Heldt's assessment underscores the expectation that Van Den Bosch is not merely a developmental signing but a ready contributor. The sporting director highlighted the combination of physical presence and agility as well-suited to the demands of the Bundesliga.

Player's perspective

“My time at Antwerp shaped me into who I am today, both at youth level and as a young professional. I will always be grateful to the club. For me, the time had come to take the next step. From the first conversation with Union Berlin, I had a very good feeling, especially because the club embodies cohesion, development and the right values. I am really looking forward to soon stepping onto the pitch at the An der Alten Försterei stadium.”

The defender's words reflect gratitude for his formative years in Antwerp and a clear appetite for the challenge ahead in Germany. His eagerness to experience the famous atmospheric stadium was a recurring theme in his remarks.

Wider context at Union

Union Berlin finished 11th in the last Bundesliga season and will start the upcoming campaign under new head coach Mauro Lustrinelli. His predecessor Marie‑Louise Eta, who made history as the first female head coach in the division, has moved to lead the club's women's team as originally planned. The defensive rebuild was prompted by the exits of Doekhi and Leite, and the arrivals of Friedrich and Van Den Bosch signal a clear intent to shore up the rearguard with players who combine experience at a young age with room to grow. The presence of compatriot Nsoki may also help Van Den Bosch settle quickly into his new surroundings.