Jordi Cruijff backs Ajax rebuild after first full transfer window

Jordi Cruijff has reflected positively on his first complete transfer window as Ajax technical director, saying the club focused on restoring balance to the squad. According to FCUpdate’s account of his Ajax TV interview, the recruitment plan prioritised experience, leadership and players capable of handling pressure alongside the club’s younger talent.

Cruijff said significant changes were necessary after Ajax went four years without a title and finished 28 points behind PSV. “That simply cannot happen at Ajax,” he said in the interview, as reported by FCUpdate. The absence of Champions League revenue required a more creative approach, but Cruijff stressed that a club of Ajax’s stature must still compete every season rather than ask supporters to wait several years for results.

Personal contact played a central role in recruitment. Cruijff spoke with possible signings before formal offers were made to understand their character as well as their football qualities. He believes Ajax remain especially attractive to players outside the Netherlands, while the arrival of each new recruit helped convince others that the club’s project was credible.

Cruijff also defended Marcos Leonardo despite the striker missing chances, arguing that his regular presence in scoring positions is encouraging and that goals should follow. The interview ended on a personal note, with Cruijff becoming emotional while discussing the time his workload had kept him away from his four children and his mother during the previous six months.