Benes Departs Union Berlin for KAA Gent
Berlin, June 29 – Laszlo Benes, the 28-year-old midfielder, has officially left 1. FC Union Berlin and joined Belgian top-flight club KAA Gent for the upcoming season. This move comes after a loan spell in Turkey, as announced by the Bundesliga club. Benes, a Slovakian international, has signed a long-term contract with KAA Gent, committing to the club until the summer of 2030.
A Brief Stint at Alte Försterei
Benes joined Union Berlin in the summer of 2024. During his single season with the Iron Ones, he made a total of 25 competitive appearances in the 2024/2025 season, scoring two goals and providing one assist. Seeking more playing time, he subsequently moved on loan to the Turkish first-division club Kayserispor.
Success on Loan in Turkey
At Kayserispor, Benes quickly established himself as a key player in central midfield. He made 32 appearances in the Süper Lig, where he scored seven goals and set up two more. His performance in Turkey demonstrated his capabilities and contributed to his move to Belgium.
Looking Forward to a New Challenge
Commenting on his departure, Benes stated, “I am grateful for my time at Union. Even though it was short, I felt comfortable from day one and experienced some special moments. Now I am looking forward to the new challenge in Gent.” The 42-time Slovakian international is eager to begin this new chapter in his career.
KAA Gent Secures a Key Midfielder
KAA Gent has secured a valuable addition to their squad with the signing of Benes. His experience and performance in both the Bundesliga and Süper Lig are expected to bolster the Belgian club’s midfield. The long-term nature of his contract underscores Gent’s commitment to integrating him into their future plans.
Impact on Union Berlin
Union Berlin will now look to fill the void left by Benes’s departure. While his time at the club was brief, his contributions were noted. The club will be assessing its options for the upcoming season to maintain its competitive edge in the Bundesliga.
The Belgian Pro League Awaits
Benes’s transfer to KAA Gent marks a significant step in his career, moving to a league known for its competitive nature and development of talent. His arrival is anticipated to bring a new dynamic to Gent’s play, as they aim for success in the Belgian Pro League. Fans of KAA Gent will be eager to see him in action and contribute to the team’s objectives.
This transfer highlights the ongoing movement of players across European leagues, with clubs constantly seeking to strengthen their rosters. Benes’s move is a testament to his consistent performance and potential to make a significant impact in his new team.
The official announcement from 1. FC Union Berlin confirmed the permanent transfer, signaling the end of his association with the German club and the beginning of his tenure in Belgium.
The move is effective for the upcoming season, and Benes will join his new teammates for pre-season training. The financial details of the transfer were not disclosed, but the long-term contract indicates a significant investment by KAA Gent in the Slovakian midfielder.
Union Berlin thanked Benes for his contributions during his time at the club and wished him well in his future endeavors with KAA Gent.
This transfer is expected to generate interest among football enthusiasts in both Germany and Belgium, as a player of Benes’s caliber moves between prominent European leagues. His performance in the Belgian Pro League will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
The move also underscores the growing appeal of the Belgian league as a destination for international talent, offering a platform for players to further develop their careers.
