Ajax coach Míchel is set for his first major test in charge of AFC Ajax with the home match against rivals PSV. The Spanish coach told NOS Sport that Saturday evening's clash at the Johan Cruijff Arena is 'supersuperbelangrijk' for his team. The Godenzonen currently sit fourth in the Eredivisie with seven points from three games and a goal difference of plus six.
Míchel said: "PSV is a very good team and because of that we can immediately see what our current level is and where our points for improvement lie." He expects a strong PSV with considerable attacking quality, depth, and strength in one-on-one situations. According to him, Ajax must withstand the initial pressure and try to push PSV back. "We can show the fans right away what we can do," the coach added.
Who is fit and who is not for Ajax?
The Ajax squad features a key new arrival and an absent veteran. Recently signed Sofyan Amrabat, the number six the club had been seeking, is physically ready for his debut. His playing time will depend on how the match unfolds, Míchel stated. On the other hand, Daley Blind is missing due to injury. The defender is still on his road to recovery and is unavailable for the top fixture. The current squad status can always be followed on our club page.
How is Míchel integrating his new players?
The coach explained how he quickly immerses new signings into his philosophy. Players receive a personal phone call from him and watch a video explaining his playing style. During training sessions, everything is explained, down to the details for the central defenders about new goalkeeper Marc ter Stegen's attributes. Míchel is satisfied with the progress and believes the squad is good enough for all competitions. He did mention that one additional midfielder would have been beneficial, a point that will be reassessed in January.
What is Ajax's current form?
AFC Ajax has started the season solidly with two wins and a draw. The team has scored eight goals and conceded only two. They are, however, five points behind leaders AZ Alkmaar, underlining the urgency of picking up points. The recent form of WDW (win, draw, win) provides confidence, as does the comfortable 4-0 victory against Telstar where veterans and strikers found the net. The full standings provide more context for the title race.
What does Míchel expect from his team against PSV?
The coach is asking for courage, character, personality, energy, a winning mentality, and 'grinta'. The team must be capable of engaging in duels and winning the ball quickly to play in PSV's half. Míchel is convinced his squad can play dominantly and that new players were chosen for their stylistic fit with the club's philosophy. Some players know him personally, which speeds up integration. After PSV, an away match against FC Twente awaits, to be played on November 8th. Twente currently sits eighth. The full schedule can be found in the fixtures.
