KV Mechelen has loaned left-back Wassim Lantaki to Helmond Sport. The 22-year-old defender, who trained at Lille and Anderlecht as a youth, will gain more playing time in the Dutch second tier after failing to secure a starting spot at KV Mechelen. The club currently sits sixth in the Jupiler Pro League with 24 points from 32 games, recent form LDLWL, and continues to search for a consistent role for the flank defender.
What’s happening?
KV Mechelen has officially confirmed that Wassim Lantaki will join Helmond Sport on loan. The left-back, who could not break into the Mechelen first team last season, will spend the campaign in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie. Helmond Sport’s technical manager Dirk Jan Derksen praised the signing: "Wassim is a left-back with excellent stamina and pace. He fits our style perfectly with his constant threat in the opponent’s half," Derksen said.
Why does this matter for KV Mechelen?
For KV Mechelen, the loan is a logical step in Lantaki’s development. The club could not offer him a regular starting berth, despite his experience with Belgian and Moroccan youth national teams. By sending him out on loan, Mechelen frees up wage space while giving him a chance to prove himself elsewhere. Last season, the club scored 40 goals but conceded 39, finishing with a +1 goal difference, and continues to seek defensive stability.
What does Lantaki say?
The defender is eager for his new challenge. "I’m really looking forward to joining Helmond Sport. I want to develop further, get plenty of minutes, and contribute with my effort and quality to the team. Together we’ll make this a successful season," Lantaki said. At Helmond Sport, he aims to play every match and take the next step in his career.
What does this mean for Helmond Sport?
Helmond Sport sees Lantaki as a reinforcement aligned with their style. The Dutch second-tier side, which finished 15 points behind Union St. Gilloise last season, hopes the arrival of the young left-back will bring more defensive solidity. The Keuken Kampioen Divisie offers Lantaki the platform to stand out, with an eye on a possible return to Belgian top-flight football after the campaign.
