Ajax (foto: Getty Images)
Ajax have overhauled their transfer strategy by signing experienced players as they aim to end a four-year wait for the Eredivisie title.
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Ajax are entering a new era.
After several disappointing seasons built around developing young talent, the Amsterdam giants have dramatically changed direction, placing their trust in experienced players as they attempt to reclaim the Eredivisie title.
The Dutch club have not lifted the league trophy since the 2021/22 season, when Erik ten Hag guided Ajax to the championship before leaving for a new challenge abroad.
From Europe's elite to rebuilding
During Ten Hag's successful spell, Ajax were also among Europe's most exciting teams, reaching the latter stages of the Champions League while producing a generation of stars who later secured high-profile transfers.
However, the departures of key players were never fully replaced, and the next wave of academy talent failed to reach the same level.
As a result, Ajax have slipped behind their biggest domestic rivals in recent seasons.
Experience over potential
This summer, Ajax have clearly changed their recruitment strategy.
The youngest arrival is 23-year-old Marcos Leonardo, who already has an impressive 275 senior appearances despite his age.
The Dutch giants have also strengthened with experienced names including Daley Blind (723 career appearances), Julian Brandt (638), Marc-André ter Stegen (596), Caio Henrique (321) and Tolu Arokodare (269).
With most of those players between 29 and 36 years old, Ajax are prioritising leadership, experience and immediate results over long-term development.
A crucial season begins
The new Eredivisie campaign begins in the coming days, with Ajax opening away to PEC Zwolle before hosting Heerenveen.
The club will also compete in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers, where they have been drawn against Irish side Shelbourne in the third qualifying round and will start as overwhelming favourites.
Last season, PSV Eindhoven won the Dutch championship ahead of Feyenoord, while surprise package NAC Breda finished third.
Ajax ended the campaign in a disappointing fifth place, a finish the club is determined to improve with its new transfer strategy.