Alfred Schreuder has been sacked as Ajax manager after going seven games without a win.
Ajax head coach Alfred Schreuder has been sacked. Decision made after one more draw tonight. 🚨⚪️🔴 #Ajax
Schreuder replaced ten Hag last June but the club has decided to fire him after many bad results. pic.twitter.com/Htoh6D90x0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 26, 2023
Chief Executive of de Godenzonen, Van Der Sar said:
This is a painful decision, but it’s necessary.
Regardless of the good start to the season, we lost a lot of unnecessary points. The football itself was precarious too.
Regardless of the many transfers that took place, we consider the squad fit for a champion. We lost a lot of points over the last few weeks and sadly saw a lack of progression.
Schreuder made a great start in a long road to filling his predecessors’ boots churning out seven straight wins between August and September.
Although it only it appeared to be just a can being kicked down the road before an eventual sacking.
The club immediately released a statement:
“Ajax has immediately suspended Alfred Schreuder. The trainer’s contract was valid until June 30, 2024 but will now be terminated.”
“The many points lost and the team’s lack of development are the main reasons for this decision. The club management no longer has confidence in further cooperation.”
“The collaboration with assistant coach Matthias Kaltenbach will also be terminated”.
Schreuder bows out with a record of 12 wins from 25 games, including six draws and seven loses.
In their dreary draw to third from bottom FC Voldenham, attending fans were waving handkerchiefs and banners in protest of Schreuder’s stay as manager.
But why?
Ajax had failed to reach the Champions League last-16 having finished third in their group and dropping into Europa League.
The Amsterdam giants also lost seven key members of their squad in transfers outgoings last Summer with two of them following their predeceasing manager.
There is belief amongst the fans that the playing style was not aggressive enough compared to Ten Hag’s Ajax system. Loose passes often direct backwards despite having maximum possession in attacking third.
Players were not running forfor maximum effort which resulted in dropping points and attaining fourth place in the league.
What’s next?
Fans are clamouring for the classic Ajax mentality to be brought back. A blend of positive and entertaining attacking play coupled with resolute defence.
The mentality desired is of a top team and being able to compete amongst the cream of European elites.
Rumours will run rampant over who the next manager will be but it will be no easy feet trying to replicate Erik Ten Hag’s success.
But do they have to? No. The new coach will need to instil a completely different and fresh brand of football if they are to salvage the 2nd half of the season.
😳 Ajax head coach Alfred Schreuder has been SACKED!
👀 Looks like you cannot replace Erik ten Hag 😯 pic.twitter.com/KYleRU6vRx
— FIVE (@FIVEUK) January 26, 2023