The Implications of Nostalgia in Ajax’s Management Decisions

omidbasir- It is not surprising that Ajax sought to bring back Marc Overmars, following the return of Erik ten Hag. This perspective comes from Ad Vingerhoets, an emeritus professor of emotions and well-being at Tilburg University, in a conversation with NOS.

Vingerhoets notes, “It is not illogical to reference the past, but it does not guarantee future success.”

Both Ten Hag and Overmars enjoyed significant success during their time at Ajax. Vingerhoets comments, “This sentiment reflects a yearning for the past, as it is often perceived that things were better during that time. Such feelings are closely associated with conservatism, which implies a reluctance to embrace change and innovation.”