Ajax Eyes Frank Rijkaard for Coaching Position Amid Leadership Changes

Ajax is in the process of finalizing the appointments of its new technical director, Jordi Cruijff, and football commissioner, Edo Ophof. As these positions are set to be filled, attention turns to the coaching role. Could Ajax be on the verge of a remarkable surprise?

There are discussions regarding whether Cruijff and Ophof could persuade Frank Rijkaard to return to the club. According to FootballTransfers, Rijkaard’s name has surfaced in this context. The potential appointment of Ophof as a member of the Supervisory Board might pave the way for Rijkaard’s return. The two have a storied past, having played together in 159 matches for both Ajax and the Dutch national team between 1980 and 1987. During their time at Ajax, they celebrated three league titles and two KNVB Cups, fostering a deep mutual history.

However, the question remains: can Cruijff and Ophof entice Rijkaard back into the coaching arena? In a 2020 interview with Algemeen Dagblad, the former FC Barcelona coach, who boasts a Champions League victory, expressed that while he cherishes his football memories, he does not miss the game. He stated, “I look back fondly on my time in football. It has given me much, including lasting friendships, but I do not miss it. I follow football like an average fan, from a distance. I certainly enjoy the memories, but you won’t see me back in football.”