Ajax Set to Break Tradition in Search for New Manager
Ajax, the Dutch giants and record 36-time Eredivisie title winners, are reportedly set to break a 26-year tradition in their search for a new manager. The club has made a shocking start to the campaign, currently sitting in their lowest-ever position in the Eredivisie.
The team suffered a 4-3 defeat to FC Utrecht last Sunday, which pushed them down to 17th place in the table. With just five points from their opening seven matches, Ajax is desperate for a change in order to avoid relegation. Adding insult to injury, they were also beaten 2-0 by Brighton in the Europa League, leaving them at the bottom of Group B.
The poor performance and lack of wins led to the firing of Maurice Steijn, who was appointed as manager in the summer. John van ‘t Schip has been placed as interim boss until a permanent replacement is found.
In a surprising turn of events, Ajax is considering appointing a foreign coach, breaking their long-standing tradition of only employing Dutch coaches. The last foreigner to manage the club was Dane Morten Olsen, who left in November 1998. Since then, Ajax has exclusively hired Dutch coaches. However, due to a shortage of suitable candidates within the Netherlands, the club is rethinking its strategy.
Ajax has faced significant challenges off the pitch as well. Marc Overmars, the former director of football, resigned last year after sending inappropriate messages to female colleagues. His successor, Sven Mislintat, was sacked after just five months following a disappointing summer transfer window. Edwin van der Sar also resigned as CEO in the summer, and Jan van Halst temporarily took his place. Alex Kroes has been appointed as general manager and chairman of the board, but he will not begin his duties until March 15, 2024.
The search for a new manager is crucial for Ajax’s future success. The club has a rich history, having won the Champions League four times and consistently competing at the highest level. Breaking the tradition of hiring only Dutch coaches shows the club’s willingness to adapt and explore new options in order to turn their fortunes around.
Ajax’s decision to consider foreign candidates reflects the current state of Dutch football. The lack of suitable candidates within the country highlights the need for fresh perspectives and ideas. By opening up their search to foreign coaches, Ajax hopes to find someone who can bring a new approach and revive the team’s performance.
The appointment of a new manager will be a critical step in Ajax’s journey to reclaim their position at the top of Dutch football. With their rich history and passionate fan base, the club is determined to overcome their current struggles and return to their winning ways.
In conclusion, Ajax’s decision to break tradition and consider foreign candidates for their managerial position is a bold move in their battle against relegation. The club’s poor start to the season and lack of wins have forced them to explore new options. By opening up their search, Ajax hopes to find a manager who can bring fresh ideas and turn their fortunes around. The appointment of a new manager will be crucial in determining the club’s future success and their ability to compete at the highest level once again.