Ter Stegen gives Ajax new options in build-up play
The goalkeeper’s passing range and composure helped Ajax evade pressure against SC Heerenveen, although coordination with his team-mates remains a work in progress.
Marc-André ter Stegen is already emerging as an influential figure in Ajax’s possession game, according to a tactical analysis by Voetbal International. Against SC Heerenveen, the German operated almost as an additional central defender, helping his side create numerical advantages in their own half and directing the build-up through his positioning and distribution.
His patience on the ball was central to that role. Ter Stegen regularly delayed passes long enough to draw pressure and open more space for team-mates, while appearing comfortable when Heerenveen’s forwards attempted to close him down. He generally favoured short passes but was also quick to identify options further upfield when nearby routes were blocked.
That variety made the goalkeeper difficult for Heerenveen’s press to anticipate. VI highlighted his ability to play disguised, line-breaking passes as a potential weapon for Ajax, alongside accurate longer deliveries with either foot. Those qualities give the Amsterdam side several ways to escape pressure: playing through opponents, moving around them or going directly over the press.
The analysis noted that Ajax’s coordination around those more ambitious passes is not yet fully developed. However, Ter Stegen’s technique, awareness and calmness provide a strong foundation as the understanding between the goalkeeper, defenders, midfielders and attackers continues to improve.
Reported first by
- Ter Stegen als spelmaker: het wapen achter de Ajax-opbouw— Voetbal International
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