AFC Ajax have made a bold move in their search for stability, sacking head coach John Heitinga with immediate effect after a dismal run of form and reportedly approaching former boss Erik ten Hag to lead the team once more. The decision was announced on Thursday following Ajax’s humiliating 3-0 defeat to Galatasaray SK, leaving the Dutch giants bottom of their Champions League group and struggling domestically.
Heitinga, a former Ajax defender and assistant coach in England, was appointed earlier this season but failed to impose the desired standards. His record stood at just five wins in eleven league matches and four straight losses in Europe, prompting the club’s board to act swiftly. Technical director Alex Kroes also offered his resignation following the decision, though he will remain in post until a permanent successor is appointed.
Ten Hag, who managed Ajax from 2018 to 2022 and brought the club a period of sustained success, is now in discussions with the club about a possible return. Sources indicate that he has met with Kroes and the club hierarchy to explore the role, though no formal contract has yet been signed.
The 55-year-old Dutchman’s availability follows a turbulent spell at Bayer Leverkusen where he was dismissed after just three matches into his tenure. His successful legacy at Ajax — including multiple Eredivisie titles and a memorable Champions League semi-final run — makes him a logical candidate to steady the club at a critical moment.
Until a permanent appointment is finalised, assistant coach Fred Grim has been appointed as interim head coach ahead of Ajax’s upcoming Eredivisie fixture against FC Utrecht on Sunday. The club now faces a defining period: securing ten Hag swiftly could restore momentum, but failure to convince him may prolong the turbulence.
For Ajax, the move sends a clear message: change is non-negotiable. The footballing world will watch closely to see if ten Hag accepts the challenge and if he can recapture the spark that once made Ajax a European force.
