Amid so much change and little time to settle, the big question is whether Hearts can maintain their push at the top.
Vrancken says that’s exactly the brief, and in his first role outside Belgium he seems to relish the challenge.
He also relates to Hearts’ experience last season, when they lost the title in the dying moments of a thrilling campaign.
Vrancken endured something similar at Gent in 2023, denied the championship by a late Royal Antwerp goal on the final day.
“It definitely takes time to get over,” he said.
“But focusing on the new season and new goals is the only way to move on and work toward what’s next.”
“I hope next time we’re on the right side of the story. It’s about putting our energy into what’s ahead and not looking back too much.”
“The best clubs to work for are ambitious ones. This is a strong ambition, a clear focus, a worthy goal. We have to put in the work, aim as high as possible, and then see where we end up.”