Merelbeke vs Gent - Friendlies Clubs

The Friendlies Clubs returns to the home ground on June 27, 2026, where Merelbeke and Gent will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Manchester City face the K-League All-Stars in Seoul on Wednesday as part of their pre-season tour of Asia.

There is little to choose between Merelbeke and Gent on paper, and the Friendlies Clubs encounter should reflect that balance. Merelbeke will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. Gent's away form is hard to read, but they will arrive with the belief that they can trouble their hosts. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

Wing play is likely to be central to the contest. Merelbeke will look to stretch the pitch and isolate their wide attackers, while Gent must find a way to compress the space and choke the supply lines. Chelsea have been encouraged to consider a surprise move for Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, with former Red Devils midfielder Quinton Fortune believing the Cameroon international could suit their style of football.

The fixture is likely to be shaped by its key performers, with creative midfielders and clinical finishers on both sides capable of turning the game in an instant. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Man Utd have made an offer to sign Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba before the summer transfer deadline.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. A share of the spoils looks the most probable outcome, with neither side holding a decisive edge — a 1-1 draw feels like a fitting result. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Friendlies Clubs standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.