Riemer leaves Brentford after four years to become Anderlecht boss
This is Riemer's first permanent Head Coach role
Written by Training Ground Guru — December 2, 2022
BRIAN RIEMER has left Brentford after four years to take his first permanent role as a Head Coach, with Belgian giants Anderlecht.
The 44-year-old Dane joined the Bees in October 2022 as assistant to Thomas Frank, his compatriot and long-time friend. He was the only member of staff that Frank brought in with him to the club, with the rest being club appointments.
Riemer, who replaces Felice Mazzu as Head Coach, joined up with Anderlecht today at their winter training camp. He started his professional coaching career with Hvidovre in his homeland in 2004 and rose from the youth ranks to become assistant with the first team, even briefly taking up the role of interim Head Coach in 2008.
At the end of that year he moved to FC Copenhagen as U19s Lead, before joining their senior coaching staff in January 2012. He was involved during a considerable period of success for the club, as they won the Danish Cup and league, as well as qualifying for the Champions League.
His four years with Brentford have also been historic ones for the club, as they reached the Premier League for the first time in their history and then maintained their top-flight status last season.
“Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve known RSC Anderlecht as a massive club in European football," Riemer said. "So I’m obviously very proud to become the Head Coach at such a big and proud club.
“I know what it’s like to have to win every game and to compete for titles from my time at FC Copenhagen. Over the past years at Brentford FC, we’ve completed a very different yet massive challenge to install a long-term football culture and stability and, in the end, to bring the club to the Premier League.
“I feel the time is right for me now to take the next step and I only wanted it to be in a top, top club like this. There is work to be done to get the team back where it belongs. I’m very eager and confident about the challenge ahead.”
CEO of Sport Jesper Fredberg added: “Brian has played a crucial part in Brentford’s successes throughout the last few years. He’s obviously ready for the next step and we’re very happy that we’ve managed to bring him to RSC Anderlecht.
“We took the time to find the right candidate, someone who fits the style of play and the long-term strategy of this club. Brian stands for a clear, dominant and entertaining style of play that will match well with our philosophy here at RSC Anderlecht.”
