Eintracht sign Arthur Theate | OneFootball

The centre-back arrives on loan until the end of the current season, with the Eagles having an option to make it permanent after that.

Belgium international Arthur Theate was born in the Belgian city of Liège in 2000, and started out in the game in the youth academy at Standard Liège and then KRC Genk. He made his professional debut at the age of 20 for KV Oostende in the Belgian top flight and quickly established himself in the first team.

After scoring five goals in 40 competitive appearances in his debut season, Theate joined Italian Serie A side Bologna FC on loan. The 1.85-metre centre-back, who can also operate at left-back, soon became a key player there too. Bologna signed him on a permanent deal after 31 top-flight games, in which he contributed two goals and one assist.

Cornerstone of the national team

In summer 2022, the left-footer moved to French first-division outfit Stade Rennes. Once again, the 24-year-old established himself in the starting line-up, and registered eight goals and one assist in 82 competitive matches across two seasons. Theate has represented Belgium at every level since the U15s, and earned his first senior cap at the age of 21. He played three times at the European Championship over the summer.

Board member for sport Markus Krösche: “We’ve been working very intensively to sign Arthur for a very long time. Last season it wasn’t financially possible to make this transfer happen. We’re delighted that we were able to persuade Arthur to join us. In light of his technical ability and intelligence, we’re convinced that he’ll strengthen us at left centre-back, and also at left-back if needed.”

Arthur Theate: “I’d heard a lot of good things about Eintracht, the stadium and the fans. During the European Championship, I got to sample what the atmosphere is like here with Belgium. Ultimately, the talks with the club management and Markus Krösche persuaded me. What the club has achieved in recent years is inspiring, as is the way they have celebrated their successes. That’s exactly what I’m looking for: to perform well and win titles. The fans, the stadium, the opportunities - it’s a perfect fit.”