Ajax Makes Coaching Changes Following Defeat to Galatasaray

The 0-3 defeat against Galatasaray was the tipping point for Ajax’s management. A day after suffering their fourth consecutive loss in the Champions League, head coach John Heitinga was dismissed. His assistants, Marcel Keizer and Frank Peereboom, were also let go. As a result, Fred Grim will take charge of the team for the match against FC Utrecht this coming Sunday. The pressing question now is which eleven players Grim will select for the match.

Ajax has managed only one victory in their last seven matches, prompting management to take action against Heitinga. A narrow win against FC Twente (2-3) was followed by a draw at home against SC Heerenveen (1-1) and a heavy defeat against Galatasaray. According to the club’s decision-makers, there has been no visible improvement for weeks, leading to the decision to seek a new head coach. For the time being, Grim will step in as interim coach until a permanent replacement is found. SoccerNews has highlighted six potential candidates for the vacant position.

Grim faces an immediate challenge in assembling a squad for this weekend. Ajax is currently dealing with several injuries, and the latest addition to the injury list is Owen Wijndal, who will miss the match in Utrecht. Lucas Rosa is expected to replace him at left-back. On the opposite flank, Anton Gaaei will play. Additionally, there will be changes in the heart of the defense, with Ko Itakura stepping in for Josip Sutalo alongside left center-back Youri Baas. Remko Pasveer will retain his position as goalkeeper.

Changes are also anticipated in the forward line. Heitinga had previously chosen Regeer as the right winger, but it is likely that Raúl Moro will reclaim that position this weekend. The 22-year-old Spaniard did not come on against Galatasaray, so he is fit and ready for the match in Utrecht. On the opposite wing, Mika Godts, who has been performing well in the Eredivisie this season, is expected to start.

Predicted Ajax lineup against FC Utrecht (4-3-3):
Pasveer; Gaaei, Itakura, Baas, Rosa; Regeer, Gloukh, Taylor; Moro, Weghorst, Godts.

Gambling can be harmful. Know your limits and stop in time | 18+