ajax onder vuur om mislintat-transfers

2026-02-03 sport

Amsterdam, dinsdag, 3 februari 2026.
Ajax staat onder druk door haar transferbeleid sinds de komst van Sven Mislintat. Journalisten en analisten spreken van een cabaretvoorstelling, verwijzend naar verrassende keuzes en twijfelachtige resultaten. Belangrijke transfers mislukten, zoals Steven Bergwijn en Gastón Ávila, terwijl de selectie nog steeds geen verdedigende middenvelder telt, één jaar na het vertrek van Jordan Henderson. De druk groeit na een 2-2 gelijkspel tegen Excelsior, waarin Ajax een 0-2 voorsprong liet glippen. Critici wijzen op een gebrek aan ervaring, communicatie en leiderschap binnen de ploeg. Technisch directeur Jordi Cruijff ziet structurele problemen, juist nu Ajax moet concurreren met Feyenoord en NEC om de tweede plek. Het vertrouwen in het huidige beleid brokkelt snel af.

ongoing scrutiny of ajax’s transfer strategy

Ajax faces mounting criticism over its transfer policy following the appointment of football director Sven Mislintat. Journalist Jop van Kempen likened recent transfer outcomes to a cabaret performance, highlighting unexpected or questionable results [1]. The club has struggled with player acquisitions since Marc Overmars’ departure, drawing particular attention for unsuccessful signings such as Steven Bergwijn and Gastón Ávila [1][2]. This ongoing debate questions whether the club’s recruitment aligns with its competitive ambitions in the Eredivisie [1].

missed opportunities in defensive midfield

Despite identifying a need for a defensive midfielder after Jordan Henderson’s exit on February 3, 2025, Ajax failed to sign one before the 2026 winter transfer window closed [1][3]. Technical director Jordi Cruijff observed structural deficiencies during Ajax’s 2-2 draw against Excelsior, where the team collapsed in the second half despite leading 0-2 [4][5]. Former manager Fred Grim pointed to insufficient match fitness, experience, and resilience within the squad [4][5]. The absence of leadership on the pitch further exacerbates concerns about squad composition and readiness [4].

questionable transfers and financial implications

Recent transfer decisions have raised eyebrows due to significant financial losses. Ajax signed Steven Bergwijn for €30 million in 2022 but sold him just two years later for between €1 million and €10 million [1]. Similarly, Gastón Ávila joined for €14 million yet his current market value stands at only €4 million [1]. Another example includes the sale of Moro at a loss after six months, adding pressure on management figures like Alex Kroes [1]. These transactions contribute to growing skepticism regarding the club’s overall transfer strategy and financial stewardship [1].

current standings and competition for second place

In the race for second position behind dominant PSV, Ajax currently sits fourth in the Eredivisie table with 38 points, level with third-placed NEC [6]. Feyenoord holds the second spot with 39 points [6]. With PSV holding a commanding lead—17 points ahead of Feyenoord—the focus intensifies on securing automatic qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League group stage [7]. Recent performances suggest Ajax struggles to maintain consistency over full matches, jeopardizing their chances amid stiff competition from both Feyenoord and NEC [4][5].

attempts to strengthen amid persistent weaknesses

During the most recent transfer period, Ajax pursued reinforcements including Oleksandr Zinchenko, Maarten Paes, Maher Carrizzo, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, though only Tomiyasu was available for selection immediately [4][5]. Despite efforts to bolster the squad financially, key areas remain unaddressed [4]. A late attempt was made to acquire Kodai Sano from NEC, indicating continued urgency around strengthening the midfield [3][5]. However, no deal was finalized by the deadline, leaving critical gaps unfilled and raising doubts about decision-making speed and effectiveness within the organization [3][5].

Bronnen

Ajax transfermarkt