56-year-old Thorup also managed Genk back in 2020. On that occasion, his tenure lasted even fewer matches before FC Copenhagen snapped him up.
When he accepted this latest stint at Genk, it was his third job in just over a year.
In May 2025, he was dismissed by Augsburg, after which he moved to Al-Ahly in Egypt. He oversaw 36 matches there before once again having to look for a new position.
In addition to Thorup, assistant coach Imre Szabics has also left Genk.
"KRC Genk would like to thank Jess Thorup and Imre Szabics for their professionalism. The club wishes them success in the remainder of their careers," the club stated on its website.
The club cited an unsatisfactory start to the season as the reason for the dismissal. After 11 league matches, Genk currently sit in seventh place in Belgium.
"This is not the level Genk expects to be at. In recent weeks, the club's management has not seen the progress in the team's play necessary to compete at the top once again," Genk wrote.
Jess Thorup began his coaching career at Esbjerg before becoming the head coach of the Denmark Under-21 national team. His career has also included spells at FC Midtjylland and Gent.
Among the highlights are league titles won in 2018 and 2022 with FC Midtjylland and FC Copenhagen, respectively. He has also won cup titles with both Esbjerg and Al-Ahly.