Ajax on Brink of Shocking Breakup with Manager Francesco Farioli

Learn about the growing rift between Francesco Farioli and Ajax's executive board, including disagreements on transfers, tactics, and contract extensions.

Tensions between Ajax and manager Francesco Farioli are escalating, with ESPN reporting that the two parties are “edging towards a breakup.” The strain stems from Ajax's disappointing Eredivisie campaign, where the team blew a 9-point lead with just five games remaining, ultimately losing out on the title.

Despite the tough season, Farioli showed emotional gratitude after Ajax's final game against FC Twente, where the team secured a 2-0 win. As fans chanted in support, Farioli was visibly moved, shedding tears in appreciation of the fans' backing. However, this moment of sentiment may not be enough to salvage his job, with the future of his tenure at the club hanging in the balance.

Tension is escalating between Ajax Farioli and the club's executive board, comprising technical director Alex Kroes, general manager Menno Geelen, and director of football Marijn Beuker. This growing strain could potentially lead to a shocking split between Farioli and Ajax, according to reports from ESPN following a recent match and Farioli's post-game interview.

When questioned about his future at Ajax, Francesco Farioli sidestepped a direct answer. Instead, he emphasized the club's future, saying, “Ajax's future is most important.” His response suggested uncertainty about his own tenure. Farioli added, “I like to turn a page and look to the future, but after this emotional day with all kinds of feelings, I will not start thinking about my future again until tomorrow morning.”

Farioli expressed confidence in Ajax's prospects, stating, “About the future of Ajax, I have no doubt.” This contrasted with his ambiguity about his own future with the club, fueling speculation about his potential departure.

Strained Relations

According to ESPN, a potential breakup between Francesco Farioli and Ajax is driven by significant differences between the manager and technical director Alex Kroes. The two reportedly disagree on key issues such as transfer strategy, tactics, contract extensions, and club finances, making it challenging for them to work together effectively. This rift could lead to a surprising split between Farioli and the Dutch club.

Francesco Farioli ❤️ pic.twitter.com/wdpaKIFrqL

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) May 18, 2025

“With limited funds and a scouting department ignoring Farioli's requests, the coach fears a lower-quality selection next year than he has had to work with at Ajax this season. Recently, several full-backs, a controlling midfielder, and a striker Farioli brought to the scouting department have again been labelled unsuitable.”

Francesco Farioli has been pushing for contract extensions for key players Davy Klaassen and Remko Pasveer, who have made significant contributions to the team this season. However, the Ajax board has resisted this proposal. Instead, the board is keen on re-signing former club icon Dusan Tadic—a move Farioli reportedly opposes, further highlighting the growing divide between the manager and the club's leadership.

“Farioli respects the former Ajax player's beloved status in Amsterdam, but indicated to Kroes that he is not open to Tadic's return. Within his style of play, with lots of intensity and running players, Farioli sees no sporting value for Tadic. It bothers the coach that Ajax is still negotiating with Tadic, who himself would like to return.”

Evaluation sessions between Francesco Farioli and the Ajax board have been strained earlier this season, according to ESPN. These tense meetings may have eroded the foundation for a productive working relationship. With the next evaluation session scheduled for next week, the future of Farioli's tenure at Ajax hangs in the balance, potentially determining whether he stays or goes.