Technical director Jordi Cruijff has explained why AFC Ajax opted for two new strikers this summer. In an interview with Voetbal International, he emphasized that Tolu Arokodare and Marcos Leonardo are a guarantee for goals for the Amsterdam side, who currently sit fourth in the Eredivisie with seven points from three matches.
Cruijff said it is his job to assemble a squad where the manager has all the weapons for every match. "These strikers are a guarantee for goals. You can just feel it," stated the Ajax TD. The club has already scored eight times this season while conceding only twice, a goal difference of plus six.
Why did Ajax sign two strikers?
Jordi Cruijff elaborated further on the double signing. He indicated a team needs different types of strikers to be effective against various opponents. One attacker must be strong in the air, while the other should be good at moving freely and finishing quickly. This complementarity in the forward line should create more scoring chances in diverse situations.
The technical director also referenced successful past signings that were based on good statistics. Younger strikers need time to develop according to him, but the club has faith in the potential of both Arokodare and Leonardo. Ajax currently trails league leaders AZ Alkmaar by five points in the title race.
How do the new strikers fit into the current squad?
The arrival of Tolu Arokodare and Marcos Leonardo adds immediate depth and quality to the Ajax squad. Both players are expected to provide a constant threat on goal, with one being more physically present and the other more mobile. Cruijff stressed that strikers must always be in the right position to create chances.
The Amsterdam side can use the reinforcements well in the coming period. The next fixture on the schedule is an away match against FC Twente on November 8th. Twente currently sits eighth in the league. Fans can view the full squad and upcoming fixtures on our site.
What does this mean for the attacking statistics?
With eight goals in three league matches, Ajax is showing a productive start to the season. The addition of two specialized strikers should reinforce this trend. The team's recent form is WDW, standing for win, draw, and win.
The expectation is that the scoring numbers will increase further once the new signings are fully integrated. The individual statistics of all players can be followed on our stats page. The position in the standings indicates there is still room for improvement, but the foundation has been laid.
Jordi Cruijff concluded with the observation that a technical director's work revolves around giving options to the manager. The double striker signing fits that philosophy perfectly. The next opportunity to see the new forward line in action is on November 8th in Enschede.
