Club Brugge’s head coach, Nicky Hayen, shared insights into the team’s approach following midfielder Raphael Onyedika’s recent red card in their 1-3 Champions League defeat to AC Milan. The Nigerian international was ejected from the game at San Siro shortly before halftime due to a risky challenge on Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders—a decision marking his second red card in just four games.

In an interview with Het Nieuwsblad, Hayen discussed a constructive conversation with Onyedika, aimed at addressing his tendency for high-stakes tackles. The coach explained that while Onyedika’s eagerness is a positive, the club has advised him on alternatives to reduce his need for intense, all-or-nothing duels.

“Rapha also asked to train on his day off,” Hayen noted, praising Onyedika’s commitment. “We have offered him solutions and made it clear that he doesn’t always have to go into an all-or-nothing duel. He is already an impressive guy. He does not always need that.”

Onyedika may face a three-game suspension in the Champions League, pending official confirmation, which would see him miss Club Brugge’s next fixture against Aston Villa on November 6th.