Stay Of Execution As SK Deinze Given More Time In Bankruptcy Case

The extension offers the embattled club a brief reprieve to explore solutions to its financial woes.

This development follows the appointment of provisional administrators Pieter Huyghe and Benny Goossens to oversee the daily management of the club. Their task is to thoroughly investigate the financial situation of SK Deinze within 21 days, a clear indication of the court’s diminished confidence in the current leadership under owner Doudou Cissé and CEO Céline Mawet.

Legal Representation Shift

Criminal lawyer Walter Van Steenbrugge now represents SK Deinze after the withdrawal of the club’s previous legal counsel, Renaud Duchêne. According to reports, Duchêne stepped down, stating that he could no longer defend the club optimally. Duchêne had previously succeeded in securing delays for bankruptcy proceedings and licensing committee deadlines, but these efforts fell short of addressing the club’s deeper challenges.

“It is what happened with KV Oostende. We are now feverishly looking for a solution for SK Deinze,” said Van Steenbrugge. “We must now correct the mistakes of the previous management transparently and honestly.”

Mounting Pressure from Creditors

Major creditors such as GDA Systems and SK Lierse are increasing legal pressure on SK Deinze as the club races against time to secure its future. Despite the grim outlook, Van Steenbrugge remains cautiously optimistic.

“The situation is dire, but not hopeless. It would be tragic if this club disappeared, given its importance to the youth players and the region,” he told HLN.

The administrators’ report, due in three weeks, will provide a detailed assessment of the club’s financial health. In the meantime, the club must navigate these turbulent waters while seeking a lifeline to avoid insolvency.