Ajax Board Backs Heitinga After Champions League Loss
Ajax manager John Heitinga is likely to keep his job despite the team's 4-0 loss to Olympique Marseille in the UEFA Champions League.
“The management urges calm and, after a new transfer window in which considerable savings were made, still preaches realism...”
The Ajax board has decided not to fire manager John Heitinga despite the team's disappointing performance in the UEFA Champions League, particularly after their 4-0 loss to Olympique Marseille. According to Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad, the board believes Heitinga is not to blame for the defeats against Inter and Marseille, considering the significant financial disparity between Ajax and these European powerhouses.
Ajax has struggled to find their footing this season, failing to deliver convincing performances and dropping points in both the Dutch Eredivisie and UEFA Champions League. The team's 2-0 loss to Inter Milan at home was followed by a humiliating 4-0 defeat at the hands of Olympique Marseille, which led to fans calling for Heitinga's sacking on social media.
The pressure on Heitinga increased after Ajax's narrow 2-1 win over NAC Breda, which many considered a lucky victory. Despite the criticism, Heitinga remains in his position, with the board urging patience and realism given the team's recent history and financial constraints. Ajax's board believes the team needs time to grow and develop, especially in competitions like the Champions League.
“After the embarrassment (in Marseille), the management sees no reason to part ways with the young head coach, who was brought back this summer,” Inan writes.
“The management urges calm and, after a new transfer window in which considerable savings were made, still preaches realism. Ajax may be back in the Champions League after three years, but immediate results against more financially powerful clubs should not be expected. The fact that Ajax almost won the Dutch championship last season does not alter the fact.”
Ajax's Title Drought Continues
Ajax haven't won the Dutch Eredivisie since Erik ten Hag departed in 2022, marking a significant decline for the club. Despite a strong push last season under Francesco Farioli, they ultimately fell short of securing their 37th league title due to a late-season collapse.
John Heitinga took over as Ajax's manager after Francesco Farioli's sudden departure in May. At the time, Heitinga had limited coaching experience, having previously managed Ajax on an interim basis from February to May 2023.
"The management is not blaming Heitinga for defeats against Inter, a European powerhouse that kept its squad together, and Olympique Marseille, which spent more than it earned," Inan continues.
“No goals, no points and second-to-last place in Europe's premier competition are therefore no reason to take action.”
What's Next for Ajax?
Ajax will face Sparta Rotterdam on Saturday, with Heitinga still at the helm. The team's focus will be on regrouping and finding a way to overcome their struggles, both domestically and in Europe. Despite the challenges, Heitinga has expressed his commitment to the team and his plan, emphasizing the need for patience and support.
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