When he recently visited his new home, he probably had no idea that he’d soon be regularly stepping out onto the turf at Deutsche Bank Park. Arthur Theate was part of the Belgium squad at EURO 2024 in Germany who played their opening group game against Slovakia in Frankfurt.
The 1.85-metre man was brought into the team for the second EURO match against Romania and also started the following two games against Ukraine and France – notably at left-back. That highlights his versatility, since Frankfurt’s new number three is a centre-back by trade.
Changed course
Born in Liège, the young Arthur began playing football aged five at Royale Alliance Melen-Micheroux, before his youth career took him to KAS Eupen, KRC Genk and Standard Liège. Interestingly, Theate played up front at the start of his football career and was a prolific goalscorer. “But then I was moved back – I had to come to terms with it,” grinned the Belgian in his first interview with EintrachtTV.
Bologna, Rennes, Frankfurt
After his first season as a professional for KV Oostende, Eintracht’s new signing made three more appearances for the Belgian top-flight club before making the big move abroad. Theate signed on loan for Bologna in Italy, where he quickly established himself as a first-team regular. During his season in Serie A, Theate made 31 competitive appearances, scoring two goals, while also making his senior debut for Belgium, who he’s represented at every level since U15.
Another move followed in 2022: having signed the 22-year-old gem permanently, Bologna almost immediately sold him on. Ligue 1 side Stade Rennes had become aware of the technically gifted defender and saw him in the centre of defence. Theate registered eight goals and one assist in 82 appearances in all competitions over the last two seasons in France, including eight outings in the UEFA Europa League, in which he’ll also take part with Frankfurt in 2024/25.
He’s a very versatile and really good defender.
Board member for sport Markus Krösche
“Arthur already has a lot of experience for his age,” said board member for sport Markus Krösche in his assessment of the new recruit. “He’s a very versatile and really good defender who can play as a centre-back, left-back or in a back three. He’s also a leader, which is important. He’s gained a lot of experience at various clubs and will help us in guiding the young players.”
When asked which position he most likely sees himself in, the Belgian answered humorously: “I can even play in goal if needed. At the end of the day, I’m here to exploit my full potential and mentality. I’m here to win trophies. I’m super happy to be here and can’t wait to get going!”
The stage is set for the first Belgian to wear an Eintracht Frankfurt shirt: Arthur Theate.
