Ajax has announced the appointment of Italian coach Francesco Farioli as the club’s new manager, signing him to a three-year contract that runs from June 11, 2024, to June 30, 2027. This decision follows a tough season for the Dutch football giants, who finished fifth in the Eredivisie.
The club released a statement confirming, “Ajax has reached an agreement with Francesco Farioli and OGC Nice on the transfer of the head coach to Ajax.”
Expressing his enthusiasm, Farioli stated, “I am delighted to be here in Amsterdam. Together with the staff, we will dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly. We aim to reconnect with the club’s DNA and infuse new energy through a positive approach.”
Farioli previously led Nice to an impressive start in the French Ligue 1, remaining unbeaten for the first 13 matches, including a notable 3-2 victory over Paris Saint-Germain. However, the team’s performance later faltered, finishing fifth and 21 points behind PSG.
Ajax’s recent performance was similarly disappointing, concluding the season with 56 points, a staggering 35 points behind champions PSV Eindhoven. This secured them only a spot in the Europa League qualifying rounds, far below the expectations for a club with a rich history of success.
The season’s low points included a humiliating defeat to amateur club Hercules in the Dutch cup and a crushing 6-0 loss to Feyenoord in the “Klassieker.” Additionally, internal turmoil saw CEO and chairman Alex Kroes temporarily suspended due to insider trading allegations, before returning as technical director.
With Farioli at the helm, Ajax looks forward to revitalizing its storied legacy and achieving greater success in the coming seasons.
Farioli, 2027 pic.twitter.com/vWN4TIIE4b
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) May 23, 2024
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