The decision concerns the two takeover bids that remain on the table: one from the Austrian-Canadian parts manufacturer Magna, and one from the Brussels-based investment fund RHJ International. Magna is generally considered the favourite, and it is their bid that has the support of Merkel, thanks to guarantees given over jobs in Germany.

According to reports, not only can GM not decide between the two bidders, it may even be considering holding onto Opel Europe after all. Just where that would leave Opel Antwerp is not clear, though it is a fairly safe bet that cuts would be made. However the two bidders offer little hope for a bright future for Opel Antwerp.