Ajax eye Daley Blind reunion as coaching ambitions loom

Ajax and 36‑year‑old defender Daley Blind are currently in talks about a possible reunion, with the club’s technical director Jordi Cruijff reportedly involved, as Blind seeks to finish his playing career where it began after three seasons under contract at Girona. Blind recently terminated his contract with Girona after three seasons. He has expressed a desire to conclude his distinguished playing career at Ajax, the club where he began his professional journey. Blind also indicated an ambition to embark on his first coaching steps in Amsterdam. Discussions with technical director Jordi Cruijff are reportedly underway to facilitate that transition.

\n\nKasper Dolberg is absent through injury as Ajax start their campaign without the Dane. The absence compounds a striking shortage up front after Wout Weghorst’s departure to FC Twente. Ajax manager Míchel is forced to field a makeshift attack against Panathinaikos.

No formal agreement has been reached yet, but insiders suggest a deal could be finalized shortly. If the move materialises, Blind will reunite with Míchel, Ajax’s new head coach. Míchel coached Blind at Girona for three seasons, where Blind featured in almost every central‑defence role under his guidance. The Dutch defender’s experience under Míchel shaped his recent performances. Blind’s playing résumé includes an eight‑year spell at Ajax from 2008 to 2014, followed by four years at Manchester United. After a brief return to Ajax, he joined Bayern Munich before moving to Girona. In total, Blind has amassed 333 official matches for Ajax, securing seven league titles, two KNVB Cups and two Johan Cruijff Shields. A contract could see him transition from player to coach within the club.