Ajax lose resurgent Kasper Dolberg for rest of season

Ajax will be without Kasper Dolberg for the remainder of the season after the 29-year-old striker suffered a cruciate ligament injury. His absence comes just as he had regained a starting place despite beginning the campaign behind Marcos Leonardo and Tolu Arokodare in the attacking hierarchy.

Discussing the setback on ESPN’s Voetbalpraat, Marciano Vink said Dolberg had recently been playing extremely well and had given Ajax a reliable focal point in possession. Vink felt the Dane’s qualities also complemented those of Arokodare, allowing Ajax to change their approach by alternating between two very different centre-forwards during matches.

Cristian Willaert was particularly impressed by changes in Dolberg’s work without the ball. As reported by Voetbalzone, he highlighted the forward’s willingness to sprint back, press opponents and regain possession—traits he said had not previously been evident, even during Dolberg’s first Ajax spell as an 18-year-old. Willaert credited coach Míchel with finding a way to motivate the striker despite his initial status as third choice.

Dolberg had appeared likely to fall out of contention after remaining at Ajax, but circumstances opened the door for his return. Willaert said Marcos Leonardo had failed to meet expectations and Arokodare then suffered an injury, giving Dolberg another opportunity. His subsequent performances established him in the side, making his season-ending injury an especially significant blow for Ajax.