Hannes Delcroix joined FC Lugano on a free transfer last week after a spell at Burnley.
The defender played 15 times in all competitions for the Clarets since joining in 2023 from Anderlecht. Burnley loaned him to Swansea City in January of last season, subsequently the 26-year-old made 12 appearances in the Championship.
Delcroix made his debut for Lugano against FC Luzern at the weekend. He played the full 90 minutes of the dominant 5-2 win, operating in the middle of a back three.
After the match he spoke to Corriere del Ticino about a boost in confidence since arriving from Burnley.
“Winning my first match for Lugano like this can only give me great confidence.”
Delcroix made it clear that he already seems to have a good relationship with his new teammates and this was evident.
“The understanding with my teammates is already good, and I think the necessary spirit of solidarity was also evident on the pitch.
“We’re a united group, and Luzern noticed this after the 1-0 lead. Our reaction was vehement, but at the same time, we managed to play good football.”
The Haiti international explained he was looking for regular game time at Lugano and this prompted a Burnley exit.
“I was looking for a club that could guarantee me plenty of playing time and an important role. So, I repeat, my debut was undoubtedly positive. Now I hope to grow alongside the rest of the team, helping them achieve ambitious goals and, in turn, trying to rediscover my best form as the summer approaches.”
The newspaper make it clear that Delcroix will play for his national team at the World Cup later this year. This is probably why he wants to pick up form and play regularly before he get to the tournament.
Lugano offers a different challenge to Burnley, especially with the Bianconeri also having the possibility of European qualification.
They played in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers earlier in the campaign, but didn’t last long. Delcroix will hope to change that next season.
