Jordi Cruijff Prepares for Leadership Role at Ajax

During the winter transfer period, Jordi Cruijff’s name has frequently been associated with Ajax’s transfer targets. Although the new technical director officially assumes his role on February 1, there are claims that Cruijff is already contributing to decision-making. However, according to Maarten Wijffels, these assertions are unfounded.

Currently, Cruijff remains out of the spotlight at Ajax. It was recently announced that he would take over the responsibilities of technical director from Alex Kroes on February 1. This transition has been a mutual decision between Cruijff and Ajax, allowing him to start afresh at the club. This approach enables Cruijff to concentrate fully on the 2026-2027 season. His responsibilities will include appointing a successor to Fred Grim next summer.

In the coming months, Cruijff faces a significant challenge as he prepares for the next season. The primary task for the new technical director appears to be finding a suitable head coach. Grim will complete the current season but will be replaced in the summer. There is a strong possibility that Cruijff may look towards Spain, as several Spanish coaches are reportedly on Ajax’s shortlist, including Míchel (Girona), Eder Sarabia (Elche), Iñigo Pérez (Rayo Vallecano), Roberto Martínez (Portugal’s national coach), and Xavi Hernández (currently without a club).