Míchel's stark reality check: Ajax far from his vision

Ajax’s new head coach Míchel contrasted his lofty ambitions for the Dutch giants with the reality of a 1‑3 defeat to Panathinaikos in their first training match, saying the team is still far from the style and standards he expects. He added that the loss was not the best impression to start his tenure. Míchel acknowledged that he and the squad have only just begun working together and that many aspects still need improvement. "The truth is that we have a lot to improve and this was not our best impression to start," he told Ajax TV after the friendly. He expressed satisfaction with the players’ energy during the training week, noting that they are gradually getting to know each other on the pitch. "I have watched many videos of them, but I need to feel how they are on the field, man to man," the former Girona coach said.

\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.

Míchel emphasized the importance of the supporters, stating that one of his main objectives is for Ajax fans to feel proud and enjoy every match, whether at home or away. He said the supporters must feel well represented by the team’s performances. The Spaniard revealed that he is working hard to learn English while juggling a heavy workload that includes meeting the players, his new staff and the club’s structures. He described the early days as difficult but said he feels privileged to work at a club he regards as one of Europe’s best.

The match, played in Austria, saw Ajax dominated from the first whistle, with Panathinaikos controlling large spells and creating the better chances. The Greek side took the lead inside the opening ten minutes and never relinquished control.

Míchel reiterated his desire for an attacking, aggressive Ajax that dominates games, referencing the club’s historic winning tradition. "The goal is to bring Ajax back to the place where it belongs, and we must work very hard for that," he concluded.