WHY AJAX SO BAD THIS SEASON

A Dismal Start to the Eredivisie Campaign

Once the dominant force in Dutch football, AFC Ajax has endured a disastrous start to the 2022/23 Eredivisie season. After 10 matches played, the Amsterdam giants find themselves languishing in fifth place, a staggering 10 points adrift of league leaders Feyenoord. It is an unprecedented predicament for a club accustomed to domestic dominance, prompting widespread scrutiny and fan discontent.

So, what has gone wrong at Ajax this season? Let’s delve into the factors contributing to their struggles and assess the challenges that lie ahead for the beleaguered Dutch giants.

Departures of Key Players

Ajax’s summer transfer window was characterized by significant departures, with several key players seeking pastures new. The loss of Lisandro Martinez, Antony, and Ryan Gravenberch to Manchester United, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich, respectively, left a gaping hole in the squad’s quality and experience.

These three players were integral to Ajax’s success in recent seasons, contributing with goals, assists, and defensive solidity. Their replacements have struggled to match their output and influence, leaving the team unbalanced and lacking cohesion.

Managerial Turmoil

In addition to the upheaval in the playing squad, Ajax also underwent a managerial change in the summer. Erik ten Hag, who had guided the team to three consecutive Eredivisie titles and the semi-finals of the Champions League, departed for Manchester United.

His replacement, Alfred Schreuder, has struggled to adapt to the demands of the Ajax job. The Dutch coach has failed to instill his philosophy and tactics effectively, leading to inconsistent performances and poor results. Schreuder’s inability to motivate and inspire the players has further exacerbated the team’s troubles.

Lack of Squad Depth

The departures of key players have exposed the lack of depth in Ajax’s squad. Injuries and suspensions have left Schreuder short of options, particularly in midfield and attack. The inability to rotate players has resulted in fatigue and decreased performance levels, especially towards the end of matches.

The club’s failure to adequately strengthen the squad during the summer transfer window has come back to haunt them. Ajax now find themselves reliant on a small group of players who are struggling to cope with the demands of a congested fixture list.

Poor Form of Prominent Players

To compound Ajax’s woes, several prominent players have endured a significant dip in form this season. Dusan Tadic, who was instrumental in the team’s success under ten Hag, has looked a shadow of his former self. The Serbian winger has struggled to create chances and has been wasteful in front of goal.

Captain Dusan Tadic and midfielder Davy Klaassen have also failed to replicate their previous levels of performance. Their struggles have had a detrimental impact on the team’s overall output and have contributed to the lack of creativity and goalscoring threat.

Conclusion: A Season of Disappointment

Ajax’s struggles this season have been a major disappointment for fans and pundits alike. The team’s poor start to the Eredivisie campaign, coupled with their underwhelming performances in the Champions League, has raised serious questions about the club’s direction and long-term prospects.

While the season is still in its early stages, Ajax face an uphill battle to regain their status as Dutch champions. The team’s lack of quality, depth, and cohesion will make it difficult to compete with the likes of Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven. It is likely that Ajax will need to endure a season of transition and rebuilding before they can challenge for major silverware again.

FAQs

1. What are the main reasons for Ajax’s poor start to the season?

The departures of key players, managerial turmoil, lack of squad depth, and poor form of prominent players have all contributed to Ajax’s struggles this season.

2. Who has replaced Erik ten Hag as Ajax’s manager?

Alfred Schreuder was appointed as Ajax’s manager in the summer of 2022.

3. Which key players have left Ajax this season?

Lisandro Martinez, Antony, and Ryan Gravenberch are among the key players who departed Ajax during the summer transfer window.

4. What are Ajax’s chances of winning the Eredivisie title this season?

Ajax face an uphill battle to regain their status as Dutch champions this season. The team’s lack of quality, depth, and cohesion will make it difficult to compete with the likes of Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven.

5. What does the future hold for Ajax?

Ajax will likely need to endure a season of transition and rebuilding before they can challenge for major silverware again.