Ajax Manager Francesco Farioli Reveals Youri Regeer's Positional Role

Ajax manager Francesco Farioli says Youri Regeer will play as a midfielder, not a right-back, despite initial reports suggesting otherwise.

Ajax Re-Signs Former Academy Product Youri Regeer

Ajax has announced the signing of midfielder Youri Regeer from FC Twente, marking the club's first acquisition of the January transfer window. Regeer, 21, is a former Ajax youth academy product who left the club on a free transfer in 2023. During his initial stint at Ajax, Regeer made eight senior appearances between 2017 and 2023.

Regeer's 18-month spell at FC Twente proved to be a valuable learning experience, as he accumulated 63 games for the Eredivisie outfit. Ajax has now activated the €4.3 million buy-back clause to bring Regeer back to the club. Ajax's technical director, Alex Kroes, expressed his delight at Regeer's return, stating, “Youri has been able to get a lot of experience at FC Twente since his departure from Amsterdam, making considerable strides and becoming a mature player.”

Kroes also highlighted the advantages of Regeer's familiarity with the club, saying, “He knows the club and knows what is asked of you at Ajax.” Regeer's homecoming is expected to bolster Ajax's midfield, and the club will be hoping that his experience and maturity will make a significant impact in the remainder of the season.

Regeer's Role at Ajax

Several media reports had suggested that Youri Regeer was being brought in as a replacement for the recently departed right-back Devyne Rensch. However, Ajax manager Francesco Farioli has revealed that he views Regeer as a midfielder, rather than a defender. “I see and read a lot that he is a player I like, but I believe he is a very good midfielder,” Farioli said during a press conference ahead of Ajax's Europa League fixture against RFS. “He has said so himself, that that is his favourite position. I agree with him: he is a good midfielder.”

Ajax's technical director, Alex Kroes, also expressed his enthusiasm for Regeer's versatility and potential. “He is immediately ready to play in multiple positions and given his age, he is a player we can enjoy for years to come,” Kroes said. “In short, we are very confident of a bright future together with him.” With Regeer's arrival, Ajax is looking to strengthen its midfield options, and Farioli's comments suggest that the 21-year-old will be given the opportunity to thrive in his preferred position.