Ajax Eyes Return of Erik ten Hag as Manager

Erik ten Hag in talks with Ajax for potential return

Ajax is exploring the possibility of reuniting with former manager Erik ten Hag after sacking John Heitinga.

“Less than six months later, Ajax and Kroes must hope that Ten Hag harbours feelings of revenge...”

Ajax is exploring the possibility of reuniting with Erik ten Hag as their manager, following a thorough discussion between ten Hag and technical director Alex Kroes. This development comes after the club's decision to part ways with John Heitinga.

The dismissal of John Heitinga as Ajax manager came after a disappointing start to the season, which saw the team win five, draw five, and lose five games, scoring 21 goals and conceding 28. Heitinga's tenure was marked by inconsistent performances, ultimately leading to his exit.

Ajax's UEFA Champions League campaign has hit rock bottom, with the team suffering a fourth consecutive loss, including a 3-0 thrashing at the hands of Galatasaray on Wednesday. This dismal run has left the Amsterdam side at the bottom of the League Phase table with zero points and a concerning goal difference of -12.

In a move that has sparked speculation about Ajax's future plans, technical director Alex Kroes recently met with former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag at Kroes' house. According to journalist Sjoerd Mossou, the meeting was a previously planned casual discussion, described as a “coffee talk,” rather than a formal interview for a potential managerial position.

According to reports, Erik ten Hag and Ajax technical director Alex Kroes had an in-depth discussion about a potential reunion, aware that John Heitinga's position as manager was becoming increasingly untenable. Interestingly, Kroes had previously spoken with Ten Hag about the managerial role before Heitinga was appointed this summer.

At the time, Ten Hag chose to focus on his international career opportunities, ultimately leading him to join Bayer Leverkusen shortly after.

Ajax has suspended John Heitinga with immediate effect. The head coach’s contract was due to run until June 30, 2027, but will now be terminated. The same applies to assistant coach Marcel Keizer. Ajax is looking for a new head coach; in the meantime, Fred Grim will take over… pic.twitter.com/phMVZ7PbYI

— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) November 6, 2025

Erik Ten Hag's Potential Return to Ajax

Erik ten Hag's immense popularity in Amsterdam has led to speculation about a potential return to Ajax, the club where he previously managed, after being sacked by Bayer Leverkusen just four games into his tenure.

“Less than six months later, Ajax and Kroes must hope that Ten Hag harbours feelings of revenge – and that he considers the Amsterdam club a better option than Wolverhampton Wanderers, who are also interested and currently bottom of the Premier League,” Algemeen Dagblad reports.

According to Lucas Weening of VoetbalPrimeur, Ajax has had an encouraging initial discussion with Erik ten Hag, following John Heitinga's dismissal as manager. Ten Hag, aged 55, is reportedly willing to consider a return to the club and has expressed openness to further talks.

During his tenure at Ajax from 2018 to 2022, Ten Hag led the team to significant success, including three Eredivisie titles and two KNVB Beker wins. Notably, he also guided the club to the semi-finals of the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League, showcasing his ability to compete with Europe's top teams.