Ajax is navigating another period of upheaval following the recent departure of Technical Director Alex Kroes, just months after the dismissal of head coach John heitinga. While some fans favor current Director of Football Marijn Beuker to fill the vacant technical role, internal divisions within the storied Dutch club raise questions about his suitability for the position. This comes as Ajax currently sits fifth in the Eredivisie table, trailing league leaders PSV Eindhoven by 19 points, intensifying the pressure to find stable leadership.
Ajax supporters are eyeing current Director of Football Marijn Beuker as the ideal replacement for departing Technical Director Alex Kroes, though significant internal criticism of the 41-year-old exists within the club.
Following the dismissal of head coach John Heitinga, Kroes also announced his departure from Ajax. A segment of the fanbase believes Beuker is the natural successor, but conversations with individuals inside the organization reveal a less enthusiastic reception to the director.
According to sources, Beuker has overseen substantial restructuring within the club, sparking considerable resistance. He reportedly sought changes to the medical staff and reorganized the academy, appointing new coordinators and specialists. While some within Ajax understand the rationale behind these moves, others are reportedly displeased with the changes.
Another frequently expressed concern centers on Beuker’s lack of experience as a professional player. Critics point out he “never played at the highest level” and “has never stepped onto the field in a tracksuit.” Furthermore, his progressive approach is seen by some as a departure from Ajax’s traditionally conservative culture, and he is perceived as prioritizing his own visibility within the organization.
The club is also reportedly still processing the events surrounding Heitinga’s dismissal after a poor start to the season. Beuker publicly expressed a preference for Spanish coach Iñigo Pérez of Rayo Vallecano as a replacement, a name that, according to multiple sources, was unfamiliar to many within the club at the time.
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