Heitinga must leave: Ajax seek ‘more experienced head coach’: – Knutsen & Hjulmand candidates

Huntelaar extended

The upheaval at Ajax Amsterdam also continues on the coaching bench. After general manager Edwin van der Sar announced his departure on Tuesday at his own request, the Dutch record champions announced on Thursday that head coach Johnny Heitinga would not receive a new contract.

The 39-year-old took over from Alfred Schreuder in January and has signed until the end of the season. In 22 games, the ex-pro, who also played for Hertha BSC for a year, averaged 2.05 points – significantly more than his predecessor (1.65). Nevertheless, he couldn’t avoid the worst Eredivisie placement since 2009 with third place.

Sven Mislintat, Ajax sporting director since mid-May, said: « It was a difficult decision on a personal level and it was not easy to tell him. John came on board to help the club going through a tough time and he did it wholeheartedly. We are very grateful. It was a tough time, he got the better of Ajax in fifth place and led them to third place. He learned a lot over the last few months and we would like to play a part in his development and keep him in a different role at the club, but I have come to the conclusion that Ajax need a more experienced head coach. phase in which we find ourselves at the moment and to improve the performance of Ajax, it is very important. »

The « Telegraaf » on Wednesday named Kjetil Knutsen of Norwegian leader FK Bodø/Glimt and Danish national coach Kasper Hjulmand as possible successors to Heitinga.

Ajax Amsterdam extends with Klaas-Jan Huntelaar as management consultant

Meanwhile, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar remains in his role at the club. The former Bundesliga striker extended his contract as a management consultant on Thursday until June 30, 2027. The 39-year-old has held the position since the summer of 2022.

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