Story:
Ghanaian midfielder Lawrence Agyekum has opened up about his strong bond with fellow countryman Abu Francis, insisting there is no sense of rivalry between them at Belgian club Cercle Brugge.

The 21-year-old, who joined Cercle from Red Bull Salzburg ahead of the 2024/25 season, revealed that Francis played a key role in helping him settle in after his arrival. Despite both players vying for midfield roles, Agyekum sees their relationship as supportive rather than competitive.

“I didn’t even know he was at the club until I checked the squad list after signing,” Agyekum told Sportsblog247.com. “I reached out, and from the moment I arrived, he made things much easier for me. He helped me understand the club, the environment, and even life in Belgium.”

He continued, “People often assume that when two players from the same country are on one team, it creates competition. But I’ve never seen him that way. He’s more of a brother than a competitor.”

Both Agyekum and Francis were instrumental in Cercle Brugge’s midfield throughout the season and are expected to continue anchoring the team next term. Agyekum has since signed a permanent contract with the club, keeping him in Belgium until June 2029.