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Stijn Stijnen maintains coaching ambitions after Patro Eisden role change
Stijn Stijnen has transitioned from head coach to sporting director at Patro Eisden, stating that his coaching career is not over. Despite stepping down from the bench after nine years, he intends to continue working in football for many years to come, noting that he could work in the industry until age 60.
Stijnen expressed that his decision to leave the coaching role was driven by the difficulty of managing a dual role for an extended period. He also mentioned receiving a message of respect from Rik de Mil, a former rival coach, regarding his accomplishments at Patro Eisden.
Addressing his reputation for a volatile temperament, Stijnen noted that he has been actively working on self-improvement through meditation and development courses. He also expressed a long-held ambition to eventually coach Club Brugge, a club where he previously served as a goalkeeper and captain.