Marc Overmars has left his role as sporting director of Royal Antwerp with immediate effect, citing major health issues and saying he "must listen to his body". The 53-year-old former Arsenal winger confirmed his departure in an open letter, explaining that years of accumulated fatigue and immense stress reached a climax over the past weekend.
Health forces immediate departure
In the letter, Overmars wrote: "Unfortunately, my message is not the one I wanted to bring you. All the years of accumulated fatigue and the immense stress sadly reached a climax this past weekend. You all know that my health is not optimal. However, I now feel very clearly that I can no longer handle this hectic, stressful professional life."
He added: "My energy is completely depleted today: if I don't listen to my body now, my doctors predict that the chance of a bad outcome is very high. So I have to make a drastic decision and completely cease my professional activities for the time being."
Legacy at Ajax and Royal Antwerp
Overmars joined the Belgian side in 2022 and spent more than four years at the club. He was key in assembling the Ajax side of 2019 that reached the semi-finals of the Champions League, with Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt in their ranks. At Royal Antwerp, he helped create a team that won the league and cup double in 2023.
He also played a part in identifying and nurturing top talent, including Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who was sold for a record fee last summer, and PSG's Champions League-winning defender Willian Pacho. Arthur Vermeeren and George Ilenikhena have also moved to European clubs for notable fees.
Farewell before Union match
Overmars confirmed he would make one last appearance, saying: "Before the match against Union next week, I want to thank you all in person one more time. After that, complete rest is definitely in order."
