Hearts Archives - Page 4 of 15

Braga focused on Hearts despite reports of Lyon interest

Claudio Braga says he remains fully committed to Hearts despite growing speculation linking him with a move to French side Lyon. The Portuguese striker, who was named Scottish Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year after an outstanding campaign, has reportedly attracted interest from the Ligue 1 club following a season in which he scored 17 goals and helped Hearts mount an unexpected title challenge. Reports have suggested Lyon are considering an offer worth around £8.6 million, a deal that would represent one of the biggest transfer fees in Hearts’ history. However, Braga insists his attention remains firmly on the season ahead at Tynecastle. Speaking to Portuguese publication A Bola, the 26-year-old said: “I have two years left on my contract and I really like where I am. Anything regarding interest is handled by my agents. I stay out of it.” Braga joined Hearts last summer for a fee reported to be around £400,000 after spells in Norwegian football with Moss FK and Aalesunds FK. His impact in Edinburgh was immediate, becoming a key figure in the club’s attack and earning widespread praise for his performances throughout the campaign. Hearts are preparing for a UEFA Champions League second qualifying round tie against Sturm Graz, and Braga says the opportunity to compete in Europe’s premier club competition is one he has dreamed about. “I’m about to fulfil one of my biggest dreams,” he said. “Just knowing it’s possible to play in the Champions League is incredible, even if it’s only a qualifier. “We’re facing a very strong team in Sturm Graz, but at Tynecastle we’re very strong as well. We proved that last season. “We’ve lost some players, but we’re strengthening the squad. At home, anything can happen. Away from home we’ll give everything. Above all, we want to enjoy the opportunity and try to take this club into the league phase.” Despite Hearts’ impressive domestic campaign, their hopes of a historic league title ended on the final day of the season. Braga admitted the disappointment still lingers after coming so close to delivering the club’s first top-flight championship in decades. “Almost everything about the season was perfect,” he said. “Every time we lost or drew, we responded by winning the next match. “But after coming so close to lifting the trophy and then seeing everything change at the end, it was heartbreaking. The season stopped feeling historic because we missed the most important part.” The forward also explained why he began the decisive final-day fixture on the substitutes’ bench. “It was partly because of my fitness and partly tactical,” Braga said. “I’d been carrying some pain and the manager felt another striker would be better to start before bringing me on later. “It was the biggest game of my life and, of course, I wanted to play from the start. But I respected the manager’s decision.” Following the final whistle, Hearts players left the stadium quickly after supporters entered the pitch. The squad returned to Tynecastle, where thousands of fans gathered to welcome them home despite the disappointment. “We went straight to the dressing room, then onto the bus,” Braga recalled. “When we arrived back at Tynecastle, thousands of people were waiting for us. “That’s when it really hit us. We all started crying because we felt we’d let people down, even though nobody expected us to get that close. “Seeing so many supporters smiling, singing and welcoming us back like that gave me goosebumps. It wasn’t the ending we wanted, but we made a lot of people proud.” While speculation over Braga’s future is likely to continue during the transfer window, the striker’s focus remains on helping Hearts build on last season’s success as they prepare for another campaign in domestic and European competition.

July 6, 2026

Hearts Sign Promising Young Forward Cormac Daly on Two-Year Deal

Hearts have confirmed the signing of teenage forward Cormac Daly on a two-year deal. The 19-year-old joins the Edinburgh club after leaving Nottingham Forest and becomes the latest young player to arrive at Tynecastle this summer. Daly started his career at Hamilton Academical, where he built a strong reputation as one of Scotland’s most promising young attackers. He played a key role in Hamilton’s Scottish Under-18 League title win, with the Accies finishing ahead of both Celtic and Rangers. His performances earned him a move to Nottingham Forest in 2023. Although he did not make a senior appearance for the Premier League club, he continued his development in England and gained valuable experience in a full-time environment. Last season, Daly spent time on loan at Hereford. The move gave him his first run of senior football and allowed him to test himself against experienced players every week. He made 24 appearances for the National League North side, starting 23 games and scoring three goals. Hearts have focused heavily on signing young talent in recent windows, and Daly fits that approach. The club see him as a player with plenty of potential and someone who can continue to improve in the years ahead. The move also gives the teenager the chance to return to Scotland and continue his development at a big club. While he may need time to settle, his experience in senior football should help him make the step up.

June 30, 2026

Islam Chesnokov Leaves Hearts After Brief Tynecastle Spell

Heart of Midlothian’s summer rebuild has continued with the departure of Kazakhstan international winger Islam Chesnokov, who is set to return to his former club, FC Tobol, just six months after arriving in Edinburgh. Chesnokov joined Hearts in January 2026 on a deal running until the summer of 2028, arriving with a growing reputation following impressive performances in the Kazakh Premier League and for the Kazakhstan national team. However, his time at Tynecastle never truly got going. The 26-year-old made only 11 appearances for the Jambos, scoring once and struggling to cement a regular place in the starting line-up. Reports suggest Chesnokov turned down more lucrative proposals elsewhere to return to Tobol, the club where he enjoyed the best spell of his career before moving to Scotland. His departure comes during a period of significant change at Hearts following the appointment of new head coach Wouter Vrancken. Several players have already left Tynecastle this summer, while some new arrivals have been brought in as the Belgian looks to reshape the squad ahead of the new season. For Chesnokov, the move back to Kazakhstan offers an opportunity to rediscover the form that made him one of his country’s brightest talents. Although his stay in Edinburgh was short-lived, Chesnokov leaves with the best wishes of the Hearts support, who hope the winger can reignite his career back in familiar surroundings.

June 28, 2026

Wouter Vrancken Targets Premiership Title Challenge After Taking Charge at Hearts

New Hearts head coach Wouter Vrancken has outlined his ambitions after arriving at Tynecastle, insisting his side must aim to challenge Celtic and Rangers at the top of Scottish football. The 47-year-old Belgian has signed a two-year contract with Hearts, replacing Derek McInnes after his move to Rangers earlier this month. Vrancken arrives in Edinburgh following an impressive spell with Belgian side Sint-Truiden, where he guided his hometown club to third place in the Belgian Pro League last season – their highest league finish in 60 years. His achievements earned him Belgium’s Coach of the Year award. The new Hearts boss now takes over a side that narrowly missed out on ending a 66-year wait for the Scottish Premiership title after suffering a final-day defeat to champions Celtic. Speaking for the first time since his appointment, Vrancken made it clear what his objectives are. “[The remit] is to compete with the Glasgow teams and to try to overachieve again and have a good season, try to fight for the top spots.” He believes Hearts have already shown they can compete with Scotland’s traditional powerhouses. “We will fight for the best. They had a smell of the title last year, that’s the nicest thing to play for.” “Everybody wants to play for those spots and we have to try out best to get to the level and get the Hearts I want to see.” “First being as good as possible at this, then we can have another great season.” Hearts Land Highly-Rated Belgian Coach Hearts revealed that Vrancken was attracting interest from several clubs across Europe before choosing the move to Tynecastle, making this his first managerial role outside Belgium. Belgian football consultant and podcaster Scott Coyne believes Hearts have secured one of the continent’s most exciting coaches. “He could have gone to France or Germany and I think he’s picked Hearts because of the Champions League football, because of Edinburgh.” Coyne believes Hearts’ progress last season also played a major role in attracting Vrancken. “I think there’s something about Hearts’ success last season – he sees a template over the next two, three, four years potentially to go and do something really interesting.” What Style of Football Can Hearts Fans Expect? Supporters can expect an attacking, high-energy approach under their new manager. Coyne described Vrancken’s philosophy as one built around aggressive pressing, quick transitions and fluid attacking play. “He likes really direct and fluid football. So think quick transitions, lots of player rotations, an aggressive press, lots of overloads, fluidity in the wing play as well, so his wing-backs and his wingers are going to be out wide a lot.” However, he warned that Vrancken’s adventurous tactics can leave teams exposed defensively. “He might give you defensive headaches sometimes because he’s one of those coaches who does like to go pretty gung-ho. So you will concede some goals playing in a Wouter Vrancken side, but you’ll also score a lot as well.” Coyne also praised Vrancken’s ability to maximise limited resources. “He’s excellent with sides on limited resources, getting them to really punch above their weight, because he creates this environment inside squads that is really tight knit. And he’s just really good at identifying bad apples.” He added that the Belgian is an ideal fit for Hearts’ long-term strategy. “He fits the way Hearts want to play football and the way they’re looking to recruit players.” “He understands the Jamestown model as well because obviously he’s coached against Union Saint-Gilloise with a number of clubs in Belgium over the past few years.” A Manager on the Rise After beginning his playing career with Sint-Truiden, Vrancken went on to represent Gent, Genk and Mechelen before moving into management. His coaching breakthrough came at Mechelen, where he guided the club to promotion and Belgian Cup success in the same season before delivering three consecutive top-eight league finishes. At Genk, he came agonisingly close to winning the Belgian title during a dramatic three-way battle with Royal Antwerp and Union Saint-Gilloise in 2022. Following a spell at Gent, Vrancken returned to Sint-Truiden in April last year, initially steering the club away from relegation before transforming them into genuine title challengers. His side eventually secured third place and qualified for the Europa League for the first time in the club’s history. Big Rebuild Awaits at Tynecastle Vrancken inherits a Hearts squad undergoing significant change. Captain and Scotland striker Lawrence Shankland has already departed for Rangers, joining former Hearts boss Derek McInnes at Ibrox. Midfielder Beni Beningime has left following the expiry of his contract, while Cammy Devlin has yet to decide on a new deal. Questions also remain over the future of veteran Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon. Defenders Michael Steinwender and Frankie Kent have also moved on, while Craig Halkett faces a spell on the sidelines through injury. Reports have also linked reigning Scottish Player of the Year Claudio Braga and winger Alexandros Kyziridis with potential transfers away from the club. The departures are part of Hearts’ ongoing recruitment model alongside Jamestown Analytics, which focuses on identifying emerging talent, developing players and generating profit through future sales. To strengthen the squad, Hearts have already completed seven signings this summer. Among them are Scottish-based wingers Calvin Miller, who joins from Falkirk, and Josh McPake from St Johnstone. With Champions League qualifying fixtures also on the horizon, Vrancken has little time to mould his new-look squad as Hearts look to build on last season’s remarkable title challenge.

June 28, 2026

Wouter Vrancken Appointed as Hearts Head Coach

Heart of Midlothian have confirmed the appointment of Belgian coach Wouter Vrancken as the club’s new head coach. The 47-year-old has signed a two-year contract and takes charge ahead of the new season following Derek McInnes’ departure to Rangers. Vrancken arrives in Edinburgh with a strong reputation in Belgian football and a track record of improving teams. Hearts have turned to a coach with experience of promotion campaigns and European qualification as the club looks to continue its recent development on and off the pitch. The Belgian began his coaching career in the lower divisions with DK Gravelo and Overpelt VV before moving into top-flight football as an assistant coach at Kortrijk. His first major managerial role came with Mechelen in 2018 and he quickly made an impact. At Mechelen, Vrancken guided the club back to the Belgian Pro League by winning the second division title. He also led the team to victory in the Belgian Cup, a significant achievement as Mechelen became only the second club from outside the top flight to win the competition. The success established him as one of Belgium’s most promising coaches. His work at Mechelen earned him a move to Genk, where he continued to build his reputation. Under his management, Genk played an attacking style of football and challenged for major honours. The club came close to winning the Belgian league title and Vrancken was recognised with Manager of the Year awards for his performances on the touchline. After leaving Genk, Vrancken took charge of Sint-Truiden and again demonstrated his ability to improve a side. He inherited a team that had been struggling and transformed its fortunes in a short period of time. Sint-Truiden climbed the table and secured European qualification, achieving one of the club’s best seasons in decades. Hearts believe those qualities can help the club move forward. The Edinburgh side has increasingly used data and long-term planning in its recruitment and football strategy, and Vrancken’s appointment is viewed as a coach who fits that approach. Expectations at Tynecastle remain high, with supporters hoping the club can compete strongly in domestic competitions and continue to push for European football. For Hearts, the appointment represents a fresh start under a coach who has built a reputation for improving teams and delivering results. For Vrancken, it is his first managerial role outside Belgium and an opportunity to test himself in a new league and environment. The club will now look to provide their new head coach with the support and squad depth required to make an immediate impact. While the long term success of the appointment will be judged on results, Hearts have secured a manager with extensive experience and a record of guiding clubs to significant progress.

June 25, 2026

Sabri Guendouz Signs for Hearts

Heart of Midlothian have completed the signing of French winger Sabri Guendouz from Belgian side Beerschot, adding another exciting player to their squad ahead of the new season. The 26-year-old has signed a three-year contract at Tynecastle for an undisclosed fee, becoming the latest addition as Hearts continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign. Guendouz arrives in Edinburgh after an impressive spell in Belgium. During his time with Beerschot, he established himself as one of the club’s most dangerous attacking players thanks to his pace and creativity. Primarily a left winger, Guendouz is capable of playing anywhere across the front line. His versatility will give Hearts plenty of options in attack, while his direct style of play is expected to add extra energy and creativity to the team. The Frenchman has enjoyed a remarkable rise in recent years. Just over two years ago, he was playing in the lower levels of French football and was still trying to establish himself in the professional game. His performances attracted interest from several clubs, but Hearts moved quickly to secure his signature. Speaking after signing for the club, Guendouz said he was delighted to join Hearts and is looking forward to playing in front of the supporters at Tynecastle. He also spoke of his ambition to help the club achieve success and compete at the highest level possible. The Jambos have been active in the transfer market this summer as they continue to reshape the squad and build a team capable of competing at the top end of the Scottish Premiership. As Hearts continue their summer rebuild, the arrival of Sabri Guendouz gives supporters another reason to be optimistic. If he can reproduce the form he showed in Belgium, the French winger could prove to be one of the club’s most exciting signings of the summer.

June 25, 2026

Tom Renaud Completes Hearts Move

Heart of Midlothian have signed French midfielder Tom Renaud on a five-year contract, with the move subject to international clearance and Scottish Football Association approval. Renaud came through the academy at Lorient before gaining senior experience in the French lower leagues. He later joined Versailles, where he became a regular first-team player and made more than 50 appearances for the club. Primarily a defensive midfielder, Renaud is also capable of playing in central defence. His versatility and work rate have been key features of his game and are likely to have influenced Hearts’ decision to bring him to Scotland. The signing continues Hearts’ summer rebuilding plans as the club look to strengthen several areas of the squad. Recent recruitment has focused on identifying players from different markets, and Renaud’s arrival is another example of that approach. For the player, the move represents a new challenge. It is the first time he has played outside France and gives him the opportunity to test himself in Scottish football. Hearts will hope Renaud can settle quickly and provide added competition in midfield. His ability to play in more than one position could also give the coaching staff greater flexibility during the campaign. With a long-term contract agreed, both club and player will now look forward to the next stage of their journey. In announcing the move, Hearts said Renaud arrives “just in time for the start of pre-season” as the club prepare for their Champions League qualifier against Sturm Graz.

June 25, 2026

Heart of Midlothian: Key Fixture Dates

Heart of Midlothian fans have plenty to look forward to during the 2026/27 season, with domestic and European football ensuring another busy campaign for the Tynecastle club. The competitive action begins in July as Hearts enter the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds. The first matches are scheduled for 21–22 July, where they will face Strum Graz. With the return legs taking place a week later. Progressing through the qualifiers would bring further ties in August and move the club closer to securing a place in one of UEFA’s major competitions. The Scottish Premiership season gets underway on 1 August, when Hearts travel to Pittodrie to face Aberdeen in their opening league fixture. The campaign will run through to May 2027, with every point likely to prove important as Hearts aim to challenge near the top of the table for the second season in a row. One of the first dates supporters will look for is the opening Edinburgh derby. Hearts will travel across the city to face Hibernian on 2 September in the first meeting between the rivals this season. The return fixture at Tynecastle is scheduled for Boxing Day, 26 December, while the third derby before the league split will take place on 10 April. Matches against Celtic and Rangers are always among the biggest occasions of the season. Hearts face Celtic away from home on 17 October before welcoming the champions to Tynecastle on 28 November. Their final scheduled meeting before the split takes place on 13 February. Against Rangers, Hearts host the Glasgow side on 28 October, travel to Ibrox on 19 December, and meet them again at Tynecastle on 20 March. Alongside league and European commitments, Hearts will also be aiming for success in the domestic cup competitions. The Premier Sports Cup knockout rounds begin in August, with the final taking place on 13 December. The Scottish Cup, meanwhile, will provide another opportunity for silverware later in the season. The final round of Premiership fixtures is scheduled for the weekend of 15–16 May 2027, bringing the league campaign to a close. By then, Hearts supporters will hope their team has enjoyed another successful season, challenging at the top end of the table, competing strongly in the cups, and making an impact on the European stage.

June 19, 2026

Hearts Sign Defender Malachi Fagan-Walcott

Heart of Midlothian have completed the signing of defender Malachi Fagan-Walcott on a four-year contract. The 24-year-old joins Hearts after a strong season with York City. During his time at the club, he became an important player and helped York challenge at the top end of the National League. Fagan-Walcott began his career in Tottenham Hotspur’s academy before gaining senior experience through loan spells and permanent moves. Scottish football fans may recognise him from previous spells with Dundee and Dunfermline Athletic. He is a central defender known for his strength and calmness on the ball. His experience in Scotland should help him settle quickly into life at Tynecastle. The signing adds further competition and depth to the Hearts defence ahead of the new season. Speaking after joining the club, Fagan-Walcott said he was excited by the opportunity to play for Hearts and is looking forward to meeting the supporters. His arrival is another step in Hearts’ summer recruitment plans as the club continues to strengthen the squad for the challenges ahead.

June 19, 2026

Derek McInnes Leaves Hearts to Take Charge at Rangers

Heart of Midlothian have confirmed that head coach Derek McInnes has left the club to become the new manager of Rangers. The 55-year-old departs Tynecastle after one season in charge, having led Hearts to a second-place finish in the Scottish Premiership and qualification for the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds. Hearts announced that they had reached an agreement with Rangers regarding compensation, bringing an end to McInnes’ tenure in Edinburgh. The move sees the former Aberdeen and Kilmarnock manager return to Ibrox, where he spent five years as a player between 1995 and 2000. McInnes was appointed Hearts head coach in May 2025 and quickly made an impact, guiding the club back into contention at the top end of Scottish football. In a statement, Hearts thanked McInnes for his contribution during his time at the club and wished him success in the next stage of his career. The Edinburgh side also announced that Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald will depart the club with McInnes. The departure leaves Hearts searching for a new head coach ahead of a crucial summer, with preparations already underway for the 2026/27 campaign and upcoming Champions League qualifiers. McInnes now takes over at Rangers as the club begins a new chapter under fresh leadership. His appointment comes following the departure of Danny Röhl and sees one of Scotland’s most experienced managers return to Ibrox in a managerial capacity for the first time. Attention will now turn to who Hearts appoint as McInnes’ successor, with the Edinburgh club facing an important period as they look to build on the progress made last season and prepare for the challenges of domestic and European competition.

June 17, 2026