Ajax Makes Coaching Changes Following Champions League Defeat

The 0-3 defeat against Galatasaray proved to be the breaking point for Ajax’s management. One day after their fourth consecutive loss in the Champions League, head coach John Heitinga was dismissed from his position. His assistants, Marcel Keizer and Frank Peereboom, were also let go. As a result, Fred Grim will take charge in the upcoming match against FC Utrecht. The question now is, which eleven players will the interim coach select for this crucial game?

Ajax has secured only one victory in their last seven matches, prompting the board to take decisive action against Heitinga. The team’s lone positive result—a narrow win over FC Twente (2-3)—was followed by a disappointing home draw against sc Heerenveen (1-1) and a heavy defeat to Galatasaray. According to club officials, there has been no sign of improvement for weeks, leading them to seek a new head coach. For the time being, Grim will lead the team until Ajax appoints a permanent replacement. SoccerNews has outlined six potential candidates for this vacant position.

Grim faces an immediate challenge in forming a suitable lineup for Sunday’s match. Ajax is currently dealing with several injuries, and the situation worsened with Owen Wijndal now ruled out for the clash in Utrecht. Lucas Rosa is expected to step in as the left-back in his absence, while Anton Gaaei will occupy the right side. Additionally, changes in the heart of the defense are anticipated. Ko Itakura will replace Josip Sutalo, partnering with left central defender Youri Baas. In goal, Remko Pasveer will retain his position.

Grim will also make adjustments in the attacking front. While Heitinga opted for Regeer as a right winger in the high-stakes match, Raúl Moro is likely to reclaim that role this weekend. The 22-year-old Spaniard did not play against Galatasaray, making him fully fit for the encounter in Utrecht. On the opposite flank, Mika Godts, who has been performing well in the Eredivisie this season, is set to start.

**Projected Lineup for Ajax Against FC Utrecht (4-3-3)**
Pasveer; Gaaei, Itakura, Baas, Rosa; Regeer, Gloukh, Taylor; Moro, Weghorst, Godts.

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