0
0 Explore how Ajax Amsterdam is rebuilding its squad, tactics, and philosophy after a difficult season, aiming to reclaim dominance in Dutch and European football.
Ajax’s Rebuild After Tough Season
Few names in football carry as much historical and philosophical weight as AFC Ajax. With a legacy rooted in Total Football, an unmatched youth academy, and a reputation for developing world-class players, Ajax is more than just a club—it is an institution. However, even institutions fall on hard times.
The 2024–2025 season was one of Ajax’s toughest in recent memory. Underwhelming performances, managerial instability, defensive vulnerabilities, and key players underperforming contributed to a campaign that fell far below the club’s lofty standards.
Now, Ajax stands at a crucial crossroads. And as history has shown, adversity often sparks transformation. The rebuild has begun—and it’s one that could shape the future of Dutch Dis88 itself.
📉 What Went Wrong in the 2024–25 Season?
Ajax’s struggles were not isolated incidents—they were systemic. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant issues:
⚠️ Managerial Instability
Ajax started the season with high expectations, but early poor results led to managerial changes. The lack of continuity saw the team shift tactical identities multiple times, confusing players and affecting consistency.
🛡️ Defensive Fragility
Once known for solid, well-coordinated defensive lines, Ajax conceded too many soft goals. They struggled to defend set pieces and were often exposed on counter-attacks.
Goals conceded: 47 in 34 games
Clean sheets: Just 8 all season
Errors leading to goals: 12 (highest in the league)
🔄 Player Turnover
The Ajax model relies heavily on developing talent and selling players for profit. However, the exodus of stars like Jurrien Timber, Edson Álvarez, and Mohammed Kudus left gaps that weren’t immediately filled with adequate replacements.
🛠️ The Rebuild Plan: Short-Term Changes, Long-Term Vision
To recover, Ajax needs a strategic rebuild across all areas—recruitment, coaching, youth development, and tactical identity.
🧠 1. A Clear Tactical Identity
Ajax has recommitted to its traditional philosophy of possession-based, attacking football. The appointment of a new head coach—rumored to be a progressive Dutch tactician—signals a return to:
4-3-3 shape with fluid movement
High pressing and vertical passing
Use of width through overlapping fullbacks
The rebuild focuses on rediscovering the Ajax way, rather than mimicking outside influences.
👥 2. Experienced Leadership and Youth Development
While Ajax has always leaned on its youth academy (De Toekomst), the club acknowledges the need for experienced players to guide young talent.
Steven Bergwijn has been retained as a captain figure
Brian Brobbey remains the key striker
New veterans are being targeted in the summer market, particularly in midfield and defense
At the same time, talents like Silvano Vos, Amourricho van Axel Dongen, and Gabriel Misehouy are being gradually introduced into the first team.
🔄 Summer Transfer Strategy: Smart Investments
After overspending on some unproven players in previous windows, Ajax has revised its scouting and recruitment approach:
Target leagues: Scandinavia, South America, Ligue 1
Profile: 19–24 years old, physically strong, technically sound
Focus positions: Centre-back, defensive midfielder, playmaker
Notable rumors include:
A move for Oscar Gloukh, the Israeli playmaker from RB Salzburg
Talks with Carlos Cuesta, a defender from Genk
Monitoring of Kenneth Taylor’s development with an eye on building around him
The emphasis is on balance—not only buying, but also integrating from the academy.
🏟️ Rebuilding the Fortress: Johan Cruyff Arena
Ajax’s home ground has seen waning atmospheres during this rough patch. However, club officials and fan groups are now working together to reignite the spirit of “Ajax DNA.”
Fan zones and youth engagement programs have been boosted
The return of former legends to ambassadorial roles (e.g., Van der Sar, Heitinga) aims to reconnect with tradition
Stadium renovation plans are in motion to improve fan experience
📈 What Does Success Look Like in 2025–26?
For a club of Ajax’s stature, merely finishing in a top-four spot is not enough. But in a rebuild phase, expectations must be realistic.
Goals for the Next Season:
Top 2 Eredivisie finish
Reach Europa League quarterfinals or beyond
Promote at least 2 academy players to the first team
Stabilize managerial and tactical identity
Ajax must play the long game—not chase short-term trophies, but build a sustainable structure that can dominate again in 2–3 years.
🌍 Ajax’s Role in Global Football Remains Vital
Despite the challenges, Ajax continues to be one of the most influential clubs in the global football ecosystem. Its youth academy is a global benchmark, and its commitment to progressive football remains admired.
Clubs across Europe still scout Ajax regularly, and many of its staff are poached by top-tier clubs. Rebuilding Ajax isn’t just about Eredivisie success—it’s about reestablishing its place as a top-tier talent hub and football innovator.
🔮 Can Ajax Return to Glory?
If history is any indication, never count Ajax out.
This isn’t the first time the Amsterdam giants have faced adversity. From their drop in the early 2000s to their 2019 Champions League renaissance, Ajax has repeatedly shown the ability to bounce back stronger.
The difference now lies in how quickly the club can blend youthful exuberance with experienced guidance—and how committed it remains to its core footballing values.
📣 Conclusion: Support the Rebuild, Support Football
Ajax’s journey back to the top is not just a football story—it’s a story of resilience, identity, and community. It’s about holding firm to what made the club great in the first place while embracing the challenges of modern football.
As fans, now is the time to rally behind Ajax—not only in celebration of trophies but in belief in the process. Let’s support clubs that rebuild the right way. Let’s support clubs that invest in youth and philosophy.
Let’s support football.
