Is Ajax Really Set to Dismiss Former Liverpool Coach Heitinga?

Ajax has announced the dismissal of manager John Heitinga less than six months after his appointment, following disappointing performances in both the Eredivisie and the Champions League. Heitinga, who took over from Francesco Farioli, won only five of his 11 league matches, leaving Ajax eight points behind league leaders Feyenoord and failing to secure a win in their four Champions League fixtures.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Ajax's decision to sack Heitinga comes as the club struggles to find form in both domestic and European competitions. The former Everton player and assistant coach was expected to bring stability following his two-year contract signed in May 2023, but the team's poor performance has forced the club to reassess its leadership. Heitinga's assistant, Marcel Keizer, is also set to be dismissed, indicating a broader shake-up within the coaching staff.

Key takeaways

John Heitinga has been sacked as Ajax manager after a disappointing tenure.
Heitinga's record includes just five wins in 11 Eredivisie matches.
Ajax has lost all four of their Champions League matches this season.

Timeline: how we got here

Here is a brief timeline of key events concerning John Heitinga's time at Ajax:

Late May 2023: Heitinga is appointed as manager, taking over from Francesco Farioli.
August 2023: Ajax's poor start to the Eredivisie season raises concerns.
October 2023: Ajax loses all four Champions League matches, leading to Heitinga's dismissal.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Ajax has confirmed Heitinga's suspension and the termination of his contract. The club is now seeking a replacement, with former manager Erik ten Hag reportedly on their radar.

What was already established

Heitinga's record at Ajax had been under scrutiny for weeks due to inconsistent performances, particularly in high-stakes matches. The club's poor showing in the Champions League had already indicated a potential crisis in leadership.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The managerial changes at Ajax may not have an immediate impact on UK consumers directly, but fans and stakeholders in the football industry will be watching closely, as changes in management can influence ticket sales and merchandise.

Businesses and jobs

With Heitinga's dismissal, there will be implications for staff within the club. The new managerial appointment could lead to a reshuffle in the coaching staff and impact recruitment strategies at the club.

Policy and regulation

No significant regulatory changes are expected from this managerial shift; however, Ajax's performance in upcoming matches will likely influence their strategy in both domestic and European competitions.

Numbers that matter

5: Wins for Heitinga in 11 Eredivisie matches.
4: Champions League matches lost this season without a win.
8: Points behind league leaders Feyenoord.

Definitions and jargon buster

Eredivisie: The top professional football division in the Netherlands.
Champions League: An annual club football competition organised by UEFA for the top football clubs in Europe.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Ajax will need to quickly appoint a new manager to stabilise the team ahead of crucial matches in both domestic and European competitions.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The new manager will be tasked with improving team performance and potentially reshaping the squad as the transfer window approaches in January.

Signals to watch

Performance in upcoming league matches.
Management decisions regarding player transfers.
Potential appointment announcements regarding a new manager.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay updated with Ajax's management decisions and match results.
Engage with club communications for insights on changes.

Don’t

Assume stability in the club's performance until a new manager is appointed.
Ignore the potential impact of managerial changes on team dynamics.

Checklist

Monitor Ajax's next match performance.
Follow news on the appointment of a new manager.
Evaluate the club's transfer strategies as the January window approaches.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the decision to sack Heitinga appears necessary given the current circumstances, there are uncertainties regarding the immediate impact of this change. The club's future under new management remains to be seen, and past managerial changes have sometimes led to mixed results.

Bottom line

Ajax's decision to part ways with John Heitinga reflects a broader struggle within the club to regain its status in both domestic and European competitions. The appointment of a new manager will be crucial for the club's recovery and future success.

FAQs

Why was John Heitinga sacked as Ajax manager?

John Heitinga was sacked due to poor performance, winning only five of his eleven Eredivisie matches and losing all four Champions League games this season.

Who will manage Ajax on an interim basis following Heitinga's departure?

Fred Grim will take over as interim manager for Ajax following the dismissal of John Heitinga.

Is Ajax considering bringing back Erik ten Hag?

Yes, Ajax is reportedly interested in hiring Erik ten Hag, their former manager, following his recent dismissal from Manchester United.