Youri Baas’ Ajax role questioned after Telstar bench appearance

Youri Baas’ position at Ajax has come under renewed scrutiny after Dies Janse was preferred in central defence against Telstar. Baas has not secured a regular starting place under Míchel Sánchez and watched the game from the bench, where his demeanour caught the attention of former coach Robert Maaskant.

FCUpdate reports that the left-footed defender is unhappy with his reduced role and could be allowed to leave if Ajax receive an acceptable offer. FC Porto have shown interest and submitted a bid, according to the outlet, but Ajax turned down that approach. No details were provided about the proposal or whether Porto intend to return.

Speaking on the Sportnieuws.nl football podcast, Maaskant cautioned against concluding that Janse has definitively moved ahead of Baas in the hierarchy. He suggested Sánchez may rotate his central defenders or have an arrangement with individual players over their minutes. Maaskant also felt the Telstar fixture offered Ajax an opportunity to assess Janse in a game they expected to handle.

However, Baas’ reaction remained noticeable to the former NAC Breda and Helmond Sport coach. “He didn’t look very happy on the bench,” Maaskant said, as quoted by FCUpdate. The observation adds to speculation surrounding the defender before the transfer window closes, although it does not confirm that Baas is seeking an exit or that another offer is imminent.