Ten Hag Rules Out Ajax Return as Overmars Shuts Door

Ajax managerial legend Erik ten Hag has officially declined a return to the club, ending speculation of a reunion during their ongoing crisis. The Dutch giants were hoping to bring back ten Hag, who masterminded their historic Champions League semi-final run in 2019, but the former manager concluded the conditions were not right for success.

Ten Hag Rejects Ajax Approach Amid Managerial Turmoil

Ten Hag, who guided Ajax from 2017 to 2022, held discussions with sporting director Alex Kroes but ultimately refused the offer to return. According to NOS, ten Hag said the environment was not conducive to achieving the club’s goals. Currently a free agent after his brief stint at Bayer Leverkusen ended after just three games, ten Hag was also linked to Premier League side Wolves but turned down their advances as well.

His managerial career post-Ajax has been eventful, with an initial successful spell at Manchester United that saw him lift the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. However, internal clashes and underwhelming league performances led to his dismissal in October 2024. His most recent role at Bayer Leverkusen was short-lived, leaving questions over his next steps in management.

Marc Overmars Confirms Ajax Exit Is Permanent

Former Ajax director Marc Overmars has also shut the door on any return. Speaking to De Telegraaf, Overmars revealed he was approached by high-ranking officials at the club but insisted his chapter at Ajax is “over.” Overmars resigned in February 2022 following revelations of inappropriate behaviour, ending a successful era that saw him, alongside ten Hag, build a vibrant squad featuring stars like Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt.

“It’s happened before, and now again, but I’m not going to get involved,” Overmars said. “For me, it’s over.” He also expressed his sadness about Ajax’s current struggles, noting that the club’s internal divisions and poor results have made it difficult to watch.

Ajax’s Crisis Deepens as Search for New Manager Continues

Ajax’s disappointing campaign has left them fourth in the Eredivisie, 11 points behind leaders PSV after 12 matches. Interim coach Fred Grim suffered a 2-1 defeat to Utrecht in his first game, and the team sits bottom of their Champions League group after four straight losses. Sporting director Kroes has announced his intention to step down as well, with his final act expected to be the appointment of a new permanent manager. Former Wolfsburg boss Paul Simonis has emerged as one of the leading candidates for the role.

The club’s next fixture is at home against Excelsior on November 22, a crucial match as Ajax seeks to stabilize and revive their season.

Legacy of the Ten Hag Era at Ajax

The departure of ten Hag in 2022 marked the end of Ajax’s golden generation. His tactical acumen nurtured talents like Andre Onana, Frenkie de Jong, and Matthijs de Ligt, but after their historic Champions League run, the squad was soon dismantled as top players moved to elite European clubs. Since then, Ajax has faced managerial instability, going through eight managers in just over two years—a record in Dutch football.

Despite Ajax’s attempts to recapture past glories by reaching out to ten Hag and Overmars, both have moved on, leaving the club to seek new solutions during a period of uncertainty.

Opinion: Ajax Must Embrace a New Direction

In my view, Ajax’s repeated efforts to revive its past by courting ten Hag and Overmars highlight the need for fresh ideas and leadership. Rather than looking backward, the club must focus on building a sustainable future, investing in youth, and finding a manager who can inspire the next generation. Change is rarely comfortable, but it is essential for Ajax to regain its stature both domestically and in Europe.

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