FM14: AFC Ajax - Ushering in a New Period of Greatness

[Chef Raekwon]

Welcome to AFC Ajax's Football Manager 2014 Team Thread

History of Ajax

Early years

Amsterdamsche Football Club Ajax was founded on May 18, 1900. The first fourty or so years were typically quiet, although Ajax did enjoy some domestic successes. In 1911 Ajax was promoted to the top Dutch division, and it didn’t take long before Ajax became Dutch league champions. In 1918 legendary English manager Jack Reynolds (1881-1962) led the club to its first championship. The first real period of actual glory took place in the 1930’s: Ajax became league champions in 1931, 1932, 1934, 1937 and 1937, within its ranks all time club top scorer Piet van Reenen, who totalled 273 goals for Ajax.

Wonder Years

Ajax became an unstoppable force in the 1960’s and 1970’s. between 1965 and 1973, Ajax enjoyed a prolonged period of European and domestic successes, such as three consecutive European Cups (1971, 1972 and 1973), six domestic championships (1966, 1967, 1968, 1970, 1972, 1973) and one World Cup (1972). Ajax also played, and lost, another European Cup final in 1968, against AC Milan.

It wasn’t just a period of success measured in cups and championships, it was also a period of tactical innovation. Led by legendary Dutch manager Rinus Michaels, who was succeeded by equally famous Hungarian manager Stefan Kovacs, Ajax invented a style of play that became known as totaalvoetbal, or total football. Outfield players in this formation could typically play anywhere, so you would often see defenders attacking, or attackers tracking back. This formation relied heavily on a loose 4-3-3, with one defensive midfielder, wing backs who made overlapping runs, wingers that could beat their man both inside and outside and a striker that would occasionally drop deep to create more room for other players.

Total football went on to become a world staple. The Dutch national teams of 1974 and 1978 showed the world how devastating innovations such as the offside trap, overlapping runs and frequent roaming from position could be. In modern times, Barcelona and the Spanish national team have recreated and improved upon this concept, resulting in a tremendous run of form in the past ten years.

In the 1960’s and 1970’s, Ajax was home to many legendary players, such as Ruud Krol, Piet Keizer, Gerrie Mühren, Arie Haan, Johan Neeskens and mister Ajax himself, Sjaak Swart. Undoubtedly, the biggest name was the architect Johan Cruyff. As a player and as a coach, Cruyff has made his mark on world football. The duo Michels and Cruyff have forever changed the world of football.

1974-1991

After ten great years came ten moderately successful years. Ajax had some domestic success, winning the league on a number of occasions. A great number of talented players had their breakthrough years at Ajax, such as Frank Rijkaard, Gerald Vanenburg, John van ‘t Schip, Rob de Wit, Marco van Basten and Ronald Koeman. Only after 1986 did Ajax enjoy some European success. In 1987, the Uefa Cup was added to the trophy room.

Like a phoenix from its ashes

In 1991, Louis van Gaal took charge of Ajax. Young players such as Dennis Bergkamp, Edgar Davids, Frank & Ronald de Boer, Patrick Kluivert, Clarence Seedorf and Edwin van der Sar came through the youth setup, and were joined by players such as Danny Blind, Frank Rijkaard, Marc Overmars, Finidi George, Nwanko Kanu and Jari Litmanen. This culminated in two Champions League finals, in 1995 and 1996, winning only in 1995. During an exhilarating final in Vienna, Patrick Kluivert scored the all-important 1-0. The following year, Juventus proved to be too strong after 120 minutes and penalties, although this year, evidence has surfaced that Juventus’ players have used doping.

Lean years

The effects of a commercializing world became visible in the Netherlands, and Ajax was hit as well. Many players left the club and moved on to better paying clubs in Europe’s top competitions. Frank and Ronald de Boer even went as far as the courtroom to leave the club. These developments were polar opposites of the club’s ambitions. From entering the stock market and building a new stadium, to neckties with the number ‘1’ on it, management exuded confidence in its ability to turn the ship around.

On the pitch, a new wonder team was assembled. Young and hungry players such as Rafael van der Vaart, Wesley Sneijder, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Maxwell, Steven Pienaar, Nigel de Jong and others made their debut, and under former player turned manager Ronald Koeman, Ajax reached the Champions League quarter finals in 2004. These players left the club in search of new fortunes (both financially and competitively) at an increasingly younger age. The last domestic championship was won in 2004, after which a 6 year period of paltry results was achieved.

The velvet revolution

Enter Johan Cruyff, again. Cruyff was an early critic of the Ajax management. According to Cruyff, years and years of mismanagement, both in the first team, the organizational structure and in the youth academy have led to bad results, low standards of play and increasingly worse youth players. In 2010, Cruyff, with overwhelming popular support of the fans and many prominent club icons, started his velvet revolution. This resulted in him being installed as a board member and subsequent organizational drama.

On the pitch, Martin Jol was close to a championship, but as results remained far away, and quality of the football was found lacking, he was sacked. Former player and aspiring manager Frank de Boer was appointed at the end of 2010 as head coach. The results have been magnificent: three consecutive league titles in 2,5 years, some good results against European top clubs in the Champions League and a big financial restructuring of the club. As the future looks bright, are you able to prolong these successes, and even bring Ajax Champions League glory?

The Stadium 

Name: The Amsterdam ArenA

Capacity: 53,052

Record attendance: 53,052

This is your stadium. In 1996, the Amsterdam ArenA became the new home of Ajax. It costs approximately 96 million euros to build. The first game played in this magnificent temple of football was a friendly game against long time European rivals A.C. Milan, a game Milan won 0-3. The first official Ajax goal was scored by Kiki Musampa, 21-8-1996, in the 81st minute of a game against NAC. Besides Ajax home games, the Dutch national team occasionally plays in the ArenA and some big events, such as concerts or kickboxing galas, are also held there.

Before the ArenA, Ajax played home games either in stadium De Meer, or in the Amsterdam Olympic Stadium. De Meer was finished in 1934 and was in use until 1996. In European games or other games where an above average attendance was expected, Ajax played in the Olympic Stadium. A chain of events eventually led to plans to build a new stadium. In 1989, the infamous staafincident, or badly translated into incident with a rod, took place. In a home game against Austria Wien, hooligans assaulted goalkeeper Franz Wohlfahrt, by throwing a rod from the stands. Two months later, two bombs were thrown in a game against arch rivals Feyenoord. This incident showed that security at the Meer was hopeless. In order to facilitate the growing demands of the stadium, both of security and of attendance, a new stadium was designed and subsequently built.

Close to the Amsterdam ArenA is De Toekomst, or The Future, the youth academy and training grounds. Jong Ajax (or Ajax 2), which plays its games in the Dutch second division (Jupiler League) plays its home games at De Toekomst. The main pitch has one stand, the Bobby Haarms stand, named after the club legend who passed away in 2009. It is relatively easy to attend youth games and / or first team practice and on any given Saturday you can see Ajax legends somewhere at De Toekomst, observing youth games and having a chat with each other.

Club records

Eredivisie wins: 32: 1917-1918, 1918-1919, 1930-1931, 1931-1932, 1933-1934, 1936-1937, 1938-1939, 1946-1947, 1956-1957, 1959-1960, 1965-1966, 1966-1967, 1967-1968, 1969-1970, 1971-1972, 1972-1973, 1976-1977, 1978-1979, 1979-1980, 1981-1982, 1982-1983, 1984-1985, 1989-1990, 1993-1994, 1994-1995, 1995-1996, 1997-1998, 2001-2002, 2003-2004, 2010-2011, 2011-2012, 2012-2013

Champions League wins: 4: 1970-1971, 1971-1972, 1972-1973, 1994-1995

UEFA Cups: 2: 1986-1987, 1991-1992

Club World Championship: 2: 1972, 1995

European Super Cup: 3: 1972, 1973, 1995

KNVB Beker (Dutch National Cup): 18: 1917, 1943, 1961, 1967, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1979, 1983, 1986, 1987, 1993, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2006, 2007, 2010

Johan Cruyff Schaal (Dutch Super Cup): 8: 1993, 1994, 1995, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2013

Record Victory: 12-1 (Ajax – Vitesse, 1972)

Record Defeat: 4-9 (Feyenoord – Ajax, 1964)

Record Transfer Fee received: 27.000.000 euros (Wesley Sneijder to Real Madrid, 2007)

Record Transfer Fee paid: 16.250.000 euros (Miralem Sulejmani, from Heerenveen, 2008)

Most league appearances: 463 (Sjaak Swart)

Youngest league player: 16 years, 7 months, 28 days (Clarence Seedorf, 1992)

Top Goalscorer: 273 (Piet van Reenen)

[Chef Raekwon]

Ajax playing squad

Frank de Boer has had managerial control over Ajax since late 2010, and many changes in the squad have taken place over the last few years. Frank de Boer inherited a squad chock full of older and less-than-stellar talent from Martin Jol, consisting of some talented players (such as Jan Vertonghen and Luis Suarez), young talent (Christian Eriksen), good players with a rubbish mentality (Miralem Sulejmani and Mounir el Hamdaoui) and aging players (Teemu Tainio, Mido, Oleguer, Rob Wielaert, and frankly, too many others).

De Boer realized this squad was not going to cut it. Aging players were quickly sold off, budding superstar Luis Suarez was sold to Liverpool, and most importantly, young talented players quickly became more important. De Boer, former manager of Ajax under 19s, was aware of many young and talented players at the club, and was prepared to give them their due chances. Lorenzo Ebecilio, Aras Özbiliz, Nicolai Boilesen were the first players promoted to the first team, and over the following years, many more would follow.

The tragedy of successes also quickly became apparent. Three successive domestic league titles and some good Champions League performances rekindled interest in various Ajax players. Maarten Stekelenburg, Luis Suarez and Demy de Zeeuw were the first team players to leave during or after the successful 2010-2011 campaign, one year later, captain Jan Vertonghen left to join the Spurs, Vurnon Anita, after bossing the Ajax midfield was bought by Newcastle United and Gregory van der Wiel joined le PSG. In the past transfer period, Christian Eriksen was sold to Tottenham Hotspurs and Toby Alderweireld was off to Atletico Madrid.

The Ajax mantra – developing home grown players, supplement them with young foreign talent and let’s see what happens, is now in full effect. If at all possible, Ajax management will forgo any expensive transfers, instead focussing on youthful talent from the Academy, or focusing on talented youngsters from various other nations (such as Denmark, Serbia, Iceland, Belgium and the Czech Republic). Ajax has also become infamous for poaching youngsters from fellow Dutch clubs, weakening the competition while at the same time strengthening the academy.

Central to the 2013-2014 squad is versatile attacking midfielder and captain Siem de Jong, who joined Ajax in 2006 from de Graafschap to join the U19’s. De Jong, who was nominated for sale, is part of any success Ajax will enjoy. Siem de Jong can be played in any central or attacking midfield role, and can even perform well enough as a complete forward or as a false nine.

In the 2013 summer transfer window, Ajax was able to attract a few new players. Bojan, eternal Barcelona talent, joined Ajax on loan – a loan you are able to extend for another year after the first season. Bojan can play as a striker or as left or right winger (probably as an inside forward). Lerin Duarte was bought from Heracles Almelo for 2M euro’s. As a left footed central midfielder, Duarte has inherited Christian Eriksen’s position. Will Duarte be able to captivate the hearts of Ajax fans and make them forget Eriksen? Finally, the last first team signing was Mike van der Hoorn, centre back signed for around 4M from FC Utrecht. Mike van der Hoorn has had some trouble adapting to the Ajax style of play, being unable to break into the first team as of yet.

★★ Star rating representative of overall strength and depth within each area of the squad.★★

★★To view each players Football Manager 2014 profile please click on their respective name where listed.★★

First Team Overview

Goalkeepers: ★★★★★★★ 7/10

You have three goalkeepers in your first team squad – two goalkeepers competing for the number one jersey and one talented youngster from the academy. Previous first team starter Kenneth Vermeer has inherited the number one jersey from long time Ajax favourite Maarten Stekelenburg. Vermeer has never been an undisputed starter, as he is known for some notable mistakes. Jasper Cillessen, a young goalkeeper who joined Ajax in 2011 from NEC for 3M and who has been touted as a future Dutch national team goalkeeper, almost parallels Vermeer in ability. After two years of being the second goalkeeper in the first team squad, Cillessen has replaced Vermeer as goalie in the present Eredivisie season as well as in the Dutch national team. In Football Manager, both goalkeepers are fine Eredivisie choices.

Backup to Vermeer and Cillessen is youngster Mickey van der Hart. Having made his first team debut just recently in a cup game against an amateur side, van der Hart is talented enough to replace either Vermeer or Cillessen long term, should you decide to keep all three keepers.

The decision to field either Vermeer or Cillessen will be a tough one. Both goalkeepers have their strengths and their weaknesses. Vermeer possesses excellent reflexes while Cillessen is known as a fine physical specimen. Vermeer is an excellent tutor to up and coming talent: with his Resolute personality and 16 Determination Vermeer is sure to influence youngsters the right way. Chances are one of the goalkeepers will want to leave the club after the first season: both Vermeer and Cillessen are competitive, which means that unequal play time will result in one unhappy goalkeeper.

Strengths:

Two good quality goalkeepers will provide for a solid defence, on Eredivisie level. You have a good backup in van der Hart, who, if he continues to develop, can become a long term replacement for either.

Weaknesses:

Vermeer and Cillessen lack potential to become European top goalkeepers. It remains to be seen if van der Hart can develop into a European top level goalkeeper.

Recommendations:

Maintain Vermeer as first team goalkeeper. Vermeer is an excellent tutor, a child of the club Ajax and who can be replaced by van der Hart when he starts to age.

Defenders: ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Considering the average strength of Eredivisie defenders, you have an acceptable defence. In the past two years, both centre backs and right defender have left the club in search of personal wealth, new challenges and better leagues.

The undoubted number one choice centre back will be Niklas Moisander. This left footed Finnish vice-captain is undoubtedly one of the first names on the team sheet. Moisander is an acceptable defender with good attacking capabilities. Good creativity and technical skills allow Moisander to be a force to be reckoned with. Niklas Moisander will probably be partnered with a youthful right footed central defender, either Joël Veltman or Mike van der Hoorn. Both players can stake their claim for first team football, although they are different types of players. Stefano Denswil is an excellent backup to Moisander, with the potential to become a top Dutch defender or a possible world beater.

On the right side of the pitch, you have Ricardo van Rhijn. Van Rhijn is not a pure right back, but a central defender turned right back. Van Rhijn will compete with Ruben Ligeon for the position of right back. Ligeon, a speedy and more attacking with defensive shortcomings, is an acceptable alternative to van Rhijn.

Daley Blind was Ajax’s 2012-2013 player of the season. Defensively vulnerable because of a lack of speed, but offensively dangerous because of his composed way of playing and good technical capabilities, Blind is Ajax’s first choice left back. Blind is very versatile and can also play as a central defender, right back and most notably, as defensive midfielder. You can maintain Blind as left back, or you can move him to the position of defensive midfielder, because you have a very talented backup in Danish dynamite Nicolai Boilesen. Boilesen has not yet made an impact at Ajax because of several persisting injuries, but his abilities make him an excellent backup or even first team player for the Eredivisie, with bags of potential.

Strengths:

You have an acceptable defence considering Eredivisie standards. Several defenders have heaps of potential, possibly becoming European behemoths.

Weaknesses:

You lack direct European defensive reliabilities. If you want to compete directly for European glory, you will need to invest into your defence.

Recommendations:

Buy a quality right footed central centre defender if you want to become a contender in European Cup competitions. Develop the abundant talented youngsters for sustained successful defenders.

Midfielders: ★★★★★★ 6/10

The departure of Christian Eriksen has left a gaping hole in the Ajax midfield. You inherit a squad lacking creativity, although not bad at the Eredivisie level. The current midfielders simply lack the ‘oomph’ you expect from Ajax midfielders. There are some talented young players at the club who, given enough attention, can become staples in the first team setup.

Lerin Duarte, who has been discussed earlier, is a left footed central midfielder supplying some creativity and technique to the midfield. Duarte is also a good taker of corners and free kicks. Thulani Serero is a South-African midfielder with good technical skills who can make a direct impact in the Eredivisie, but comes up short in games against bigger clubs. Lasse Schöne, a versatile Danish attacking midfielder who can also play as a defensive or central midfielder, or as a right winger, can be a good midfielder, or provides excellent cover to your squad. Siem de Jong, captain, is a great player for your team. Natural at the central attacking midfielder position, de Jong can play in various different positions. Due to his personal strengths, I like to play him as a striker. He is not a bad midfielder by any means though, and can probably deliver on any position you assign him to.

At the defensive end of the spectrum, you have aging Danish player Christian Poulsen. Still able to deliver on the domestic level, Poulsen’s declining physical attributes make him ineffective in European games. With a resolute personality and 16 determination, Poulsen is a key tutor to your young squad.

Davy Klaassen is an average backup option for your team: he is a young player though, and has enough room to develop into a better first team player. Stanislav Lobotka, a young Slovakian player on loan from AS Trencin, has enough potential to become a first team starter in the future, but in the present he lacks quality to become a starting player. Lucas Andersen is another talented Dane, who can play well as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder or even as a left or right inside forward. Depending on your plans form him, you can use him in various roles. A place in the midfield is certainly a good idea, considering his creativity and technical skills.

Strengths:

Good midfield for dictating play in the Eredivisie, some good talents to provide longevity.

Weaknesses:

Like so many other positions in the current Ajax first team, your midfielders are not good enough to immediately have an impact in Europe. Creativity in particular is worrisome.

Recommendations:

It wouldn’t hurt to attract a good playmaker. You can also consider developing the existing talent: some players have good potential abilities. Keisuke Honda is a good transfer target: his wage demands can be met by Ajax and he is willing to play for the club.

Attackers: ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

You have various versatile attack minded players at the club, who can make an immediate impact in both the Eredivisie and in European Cup competitions. Bojan plays a central part in any success to come. On loan from Barcelona, his skills are deadly as a striker, as a left or as a right winger (or inside forward). Kolbeinn Sigthorsson, the Icelandic lumbering and bulky alternative to the striker position, is at the opposing end of the spectrum: slow, technically below average, but a knack of scoring goals because of good finishing attributes.

Viktor Fischer is your young star at the left forward position. Ready to dominate the Eredivise at age 19, with bags of potential yet unfulfilled and a good player for European games already, Fischer is part of any team you choose to field. Ricardo Kishna is a young left or right attacker, who is very injury prone but can become one of the best players of his generation. Introduce him to the team slowly, or you risk losing him forever due to injuries. Danny Hoesen is another young talented striker who has the capabilities to become the number one striker. Not yet good enough to claim the number nine spot, he could become a force to consider in the future.

Due to the varied and versatile players at the club, you can consider Siem de Jong and Lucas Andersen for various attacking roles as well. De Jong is a personal favourite in my squad, due to his clever movement off the ball, good finishing attributes and good technical capabilities. Andersen can provide cover at the right or left flanks, although he is somewhat short of quality to be a first team starter right away.

Strengths:

Attackers who can make a direct impact. Good to great talents capable of becoming stars of the future. Great versatile players, who can play in different roles and in different positions.

Weaknesses:

Not many weaknesses. You might come up short against European juggernauts.

Recommendations:

Start de Jong as the number 9, in a false nine role or as a complete forward. He will deliver. Bojan is a good candidate for the AMR position, while Fischer is your first choice AML. This means you have enough room for young players to develop in the background, taking over when necessary.

[Chef Raekwon]

★★ Star rating representative of overall strength and depth within each area of the squad.★★

★★To view each players Football Manager 2014 profile please click on their respective name where listed.★★

First Team Player Profiles and Analysis

Goalkeepers

Kenneth Vermeer★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 1

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 10-1-1986, Amsterdam

Height: 182 cm

Weight: 78 kg

Previous clubs: Willem II (on loan), SC Neerlandia/SLTO

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 29-9-2006 vs. IK Start, UEFA Cup

Kenneth Vermeer began his career at Ajax in 1999, joining the famed academy at a young age. Vermeer grew through the ranks, but was unable to enjoy an immediate breakthrough. Able to develop in the shadow of undisputed first team goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, Vermeer was able to get some games. Because playing regularly would aid his development, Willem II loaned Vermeer in the second half of the 2006-2007 season. Vermeer played 16 games for Willem II before returning to Ajax.

In the 2008-2009 season, Ajax lost first and second goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg and Dennis Gentenaar to injuries at the same time. Kenneth Vermeer was the logical substitute by default. After some encouraging performances, Kenneth Vermeer became known as a goalie with excellent reflexes, but prone to mistakes, especially weak at gathering crosses. After the departure of Maarten Stekelenburg to AS Roma, Kenneth Vermeer became the number one goalie. In the current 2013-2014 season, Vermeer has lost his place to his competition Jasper Cillessen, who also inherited his place in the Dutch national team. Vermeer has played a few games for the Dutch national team.

Kenneth Vermeer’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Vermeer can be your number one goalkeeper. A good personality and high determination make him a choice tutor for your young and promising goalkeepers. His excellent shot stopping abilities will make him a good first team choice.

Jasper Cillessen ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 22

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 22-4-1989, Groesbeek

Height: 187 cm

Weight: 82 kg

Previous clubs: N.E.C., De Treffers

Signed: 27-8-2011, from N.E.C.

Ajax debut: 21-9-2011 vs. Noordwijk, KNVB Beker

Jasper Cillessen is a product of the youth academy of N.E.C., joining the club in 2001. After a stellar first season as first goalkeeper, Ajax became interested after the departure of Maarten Stekelenburg to AS Roma. Cillessen was attracted for a sum of up to 4M and was brought in to compete with Kenneth Vermeer. Cillessen became the number one goalie in the KNVB Beker and also getting a handful games through injuries of Vermeer. Although Vermeer initially won the duel of the goalkeepers, Cillessen has replaced Vermeer in the 2013-2014 season. Cillessen has been capped for the Dutch national team.

Jasper Cillessen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Cillessen is a good choice as number one goalkeeper, but an excellent backup goalkeeper. Cillessen offers superior length and jumping ability when compared to Vermeer, but lacks personality to tutor youngsters.

Mickey van der Hart ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 30

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 13-6-1994, Amstelveen

Height: 190 cm

Weight: 82 kg

Previous clubs: AFC

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 29-10-2013 vs. ASWH, KNVB Beker

Mickey van der Hart, grandson of legendary Dutch goalkeeper Cor van der Hart, could become the future number one goalkeeper of Ajax. He joined the Academy in 2007 and was a part of the great U19 side that became runners-up in the first edition of the Next Gen Youth competition, where he stopped a penalty in the game against Liverpool (6-0). Van der Hart became third goalkeeper in the 2012-2013 season, but due to an injury he missed the second half of the season.

Mickey van der Hart’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

What van der Hart lacks in current ability, he makes up for with his potential ability. If called upon, he can be a decent stand-in at the Eredivise level. Get this guy tutored by Kenneth Vermeer and watch his progress. With the right training, he can become your future first choice goalie.

[Chef Raekwon]

★★ Star rating representative of overall strength and depth within each area of the squad.★★

★★To view each players Football Manager 2014 profile please click on their respective name where listed.★★

Defenders

Niklas Moisander ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 4

Nationality: Finnish

Born: 29-9-1985, Turku

Height: 182 cm

Weight: 74 kg

Previous clubs: AZ Alkmaar, FC Zwolle, AFC Ajax, TPS Turku

Signed: 21-8-2012, from AZ Alkmaar

Ajax debut: 25-8-2012 vs. NAC Breda, Eredivise

Niklas Moisander joined Ajax at the age of 18, in 2003, together with his brother Henrik. He stayed for three seasons, but he never made the first team. In 2006 he joined FC Zwolle, where he formed a successful defensive partnership with Brazilian Eric Botteghin (who currently plays for NAC Breda). In 2008, Moisander was awarded a transfer to AZ Alkmaar, where he played for four seasons, winning the Dutch league in 2009 and playing Champions League football. He joined Ajax in 2012 for a total fee of upwards of 3,2M euros and had a good first season, replacing Jan Vertonghen. Niklas Moisander has so far played close to 50 games for the Finnish national team.

Niklas Moisander’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Vice-captain Moisander is probably your most important defender. Excellent attributes for both defensive and offensive roles, Moisander excels as a ball-playing defender. He is deadly from set pieces, with good heading, jumping and strength attributes which allow him to win many offensive headers. Okish tutor, with 16 determination and a light-hearted personality. He is playing at the top of his game: he will not grow as a player any more.

Ricardo van Rhijn ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 2

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 13-6-1991, Leiden

Height: 183 cm

Weight: 79 kg

Previous clubs: RKSV DoCos

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 21-9-2011 vs. Noordwijk, KNVB Beker

Ricardo van Rhijn joined Ajax in 2002 as a young lad and grew through the ranks of the Academy. Van Rhijn was always known as one of the bigger talents of his generation, also playing games for the Dutch national youth teams. It did, however, take considerable time for van Rhijn to really break the first team, as he competed with former Ajax right back Gregory van der Wiel, who was the first choice right back for the Dutch national team. Van Rhijn has featured 7 times in the Dutch national team.

Ricardo van Rhijn’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Van Rhijn is a central defender turned into a right back, with offensive aspirations whilst remaining defensively solid. He excels neither in defensive situations or offensive movement. Van Rhijn, undisputed right back of Ajax, still is a natural centre back with unfulfilled potential. He could become one of the best defender in the Dutch league, given time, and become a regular for the Dutch national team.

Joël Veltman ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Squad Number: 12

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 15-1-1992, Velsen

Height: 183 cm

Weight: 73 kg

Previous clubs: VV IJmuiden

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 19-8-2012, vs. N.E.C., Eredivisie

Joël Veltman is one of the next Dutch hopes at centre back, currently enjoying a big breakthrough after a few games of marshalling the Ajax and Dutch national team defence. It would take a while for Veltman to receive these honours, after one horrible injury that cause Veltman to be side-lined for 1,5 years. Many followers of the Ajax youth did not think he was capable of coming back. After two impressive games in the Next Gen Series against Liverpool and Barcelona in 2011, Veltman removed some doubt. Recent games against Celtic and Colombia are testament to his growing reputation. Veltman has only recently won his first cap for the Dutch national team, in a friendly against Colombia.

Joël Veltman’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Joël Veltman is an unconventional defender, who would probably fail at most other clubs. Veltman is not exceptionally big, strong or quick. What Veltman lacks in physical prowess, he makes up for in anticipatory and positional attributes, as well as good technical capabilities. He is a good passer of the ball and remains calm in many situations, always looking for the footballing way out. Veltman could directly challenge for a spot in the first eleven, or could grow into this spot over the next few seasons. Definitely a player to keep in mind.

Stefano Denswil ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10

Squad Number: 24

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 7-5-1993, Zaandam

Height: 185 cm

Weight: 76 kg

Previous clubs: Hellas Sport

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 31-10-2012, vs. ONS Sneek, KNVB Beker

Stefano Denswil is another young Dutch defender with a potentially great future. Given the chance, he could turn into a world beater. This left footed centre back joined Ajax in 2001 at the tender age of 12, steadily rising through the ranks of the Ajax Academy. This strong centre back had two good years at the U19 level, culminating in a great run in the Next Gen Series. In the lost final, Denswil scored a goal with a free kick, and hitting the crossbar with another one.

In his official debut for the first team, against ONS Sneek, Denswil scored another free kick. In his first full 90 minute game, he was paired with Bony Wilfried of Vitesse, who proved to be too good to handle. In the 2013-2014 season Denswil has played quite a few games already, proving he is no slouch and perhaps Dutch national team material. Early cries to include Denswil in the squad who will contend in Brazil in 2014 have ceased, after a few subpar performances, but no doubt Denswil has a great future ahead of him.

Stefano Denswil’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

In Football Manager, Denswil is not yet ready for a spot in the starting line-up. Denswil has good physical attributes, some good technical attributes and some decent mental skills. He will be in the future, but it is probably best to introduce him slowly. Denswil has a lot of room to improve, so it wouldn’t hurt to feature him in some of the easier Eredivisie or Dutch Cup games.

Daley Blind ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 17

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 9-3-1990, Amsterdam

Height: 180 cm

Weight: 72 kg

Previous clubs: FC Groningen (on loan), AFC

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 7-12-2008, vs. FC Volendam, Eredivisie

Daley Blind joined Ajax in 1994, joining at age 4. The son of illustrious Dutch defender and Ajax icon Danny Blind (current assistant manager for the Dutch national team), Blind was known as a talented player in his youth. In 2008, Blind was named the biggest talent of the Academy. He made his debut at age 18, and got a handful of games before Martin Jol was named manager. On loan at FC Groningen, Blind played 17 good games, which put him back on the radar back at Ajax.

Inadvertedly, Daley Blind was part of a small scale conflict with high stakes, played by his father Danny Blind and Martin Jol. According to Blind sr., his son deserved a chance in the first team, while Jol was unprepared to give the kid a shot. Eventually, both men were right: when Daley eventually did get a shot, he blew it with some dreadful appearances. Eventually, Blind was able to recuperate, resulting in last season’s Player of the Year award. Daley Blind has been capped 8 times for the Dutch national team. At the moment, Blind is the starting left back for the national setup.

Daley Blind’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Daley Blind has one main weakness, which hinders him from ever becoming an undisputed top level left back: lack of speed. What he lacks in speed, he makes up for in intelligence and composure on the pitch, and good technical capacities. His skills are also ideal for a defensive midfielder. It doesn’t matter if you use Blind as a left back or as a defensive midfielder: it is probable Blind will feature in your starting eleven.

Nicolai Boilesen ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Squad Number: 15

Nationality: Danish

Born: 16-2-1992, Ballerup

Height: 185 cm

Weight: 75 kg

Previous clubs: IF Brondby, Skovlunde IF, Lille Hema IF

Signed: 2009

Ajax debut: 30-4-2011, vs. Heracles Almelo, Eredivisie

Nicolai Boilesen is an up-and-coming left and centre back, who joined Ajax in 2009 for approximately 500.000 euros. After various good games for the U19 setup, Frank de Boer allowed his debut, which was spectacular. In September 2011, Boilesen suffered a severe injury: his hamstrings were torn. This injury would persist, causing Boilesen to miss almost two entire years, in which he had six injuries to the same hamstrings. At the start of 2013, doctors finally found the cause of these injuries and were able to treat this issue. In the 2013-2014 season, Boilesen has had a lot of playing time, often playing as a left back while Daley Blind moves to the defensive midfield position. Boilesen has been capped 7 times for the Danish squad, only recently scoring his very first international goal.

Nicolai Boilesen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Boilesen has good speed, good mental attributes and good technical capabilities, with enough room to improve. His main weakness is his injury proneness, a direct result of being at the sidelines for two years. If you can keep Boilesen in good shape and without injuries, he can be your number one left back for years to come.

Ruben Ligeon ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 27

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 24-5-1992, Amsterdam

Height: 168 cm

Weight: 65 kg

Previous clubs: OSV, SV De Meteoor

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 15-10-2011, vs. AZ, Eredivisie

Ruben Ligeon, nicknamed Speedy because, well, it makes sense, is a right back or right wing back. Part of the squad that reached the finals of the Next Gen Series, Ligeon established his good offensive skills, which he has coupled with deadly speed. Joining Ajax in 2000, Ligeon too, has advanced through the Academy. Just as van Rhijn was a backup to van der Wiel, Ligeon mainly serves as a backup for van Rhijn. But when given the opportunity, Ligeon has played some good games. His main claim to fame was an assist in the 2-1 home win against arch rivals Feyenoord earlier this year.

Ruben Ligeon’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Ruben Ligeon possesses great speed, mainly provided through his acceleration. His offensive attributes, such as technique and off the ball movement are better than van Rhijn’s, but Ligeon has some glaring defensive weaknesses. His strength is that of a junior player, his positioning is not up to par and he lacks defensive stability. Ligeon has some room to improve, and especially in attacking sides with opportunities for attacking full backs or wing backs, Ligeon can shine.

Mike van der Hoorn ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 6

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 15-10-1992, Almere

Height: 190 cm

Weight: 85 kg

Previous clubs: FC Utrecht, FC Omniworld, SC Buitenboys

Signed: 5-7-2013

Ajax debut: 17-8-2013, vs. Feyenoord, Eredivisie

Mike van der Hoorn is a no-nonsense defender, who enjoyed his breakthrough while playing for FC Utrecht. After being linked with different defenders, Ajax eventually splashed the cash on Mike van der Hoorn, shelling out around 4M euros to ensure the services of the sturdy defender. Van der Hoorn is known for his cross passing and his upper body strength. After a less than spectacular U21 tournament with the Dutch U21's, van der Hoorn has been greeted by its fans with a lot of skepticism. With some poor performances early in the season, van der Hoorn has to improve a lot to win fans over.

Mike van der Hoorn's Football Manager 2014 Profile

Van der Hoorn is a pure, a-typical Ajax defender. Even though van der Hoorn has good defensive qualities, he is not much in the way of creativity and composure. Van der Hoorn has to battle Veltman for the number one right centre back position, a battle Veltman has won in real life. Can Van der Hoorn do better for your side in FM?

[Chef Raekwon]

★★ Star rating for First Team representative of each players importance to the team, and their individual ability and potential. ★★

★★To view each player within Football Manager 2014 please click on 'Player X in Football Manager 2014' below their respective profile.★★

Midfielders

Siem de Jong ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Squad Number: 10

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 28-1-1989, Aigle, Switzerland

Height: 185 cm

Weight: 80 kg

Previous clubs: De Graafschap, DZC’68

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 7-10-2007, vs. Sparta, Eredivisie

Siem de Jong is not a product of the Ajax Academy, only joining the club in 2006. He played one year for the U19’s, eventually moving on to the first team, where he eventually became a mainstay. Siem de Jong made his debut under Henk ten Cate, played under Marco van Basten, Martin Jol and Frank de Boer. He made his debut just one year after his move from De Graafschap to Ajax, scoring the all-important equalizer.

Through the years, Siem de Jong has advanced in the hierarchy from a talented youngster, to a backup player, to first team player to captain and key player. He is a very versatile player, being capable to play as a central midfielder or as a striker. Siem de Jong is a natural attacking central midfielder, able to time his runs while moving in the channels. His technique is lacklustre and far from the silky touches we have come to see from players such as Litmanen, van der Vaart and Eriksen, but his functional style of play has been an integral part of three successful domestic league campaigns.

Siem de Jong’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

De Jong has excellent mental attributes, good physical attributes but only decent to average technical capabilities. He is an excellent professional through and through, so make sure to use de Jong as a tutor to younger players. I like to play Siem de Jong as a complete forward or as a false nine: he has performed admirable in the Champions League, bagging the CL topscorer trophy in his first season. Siem de Jong only has two years remaining on his contract: be sure open contract talks early to ensure his services.

Thulani Serero ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Squad Number: 25

Nationality: South African

Born: 11-4-1990, Johannesburg

Height: 172 cm

Weight: 68 kg

Previous clubs: Ajax Cape Town

Signed: 22-5-2011

Ajax debut: 7-8-2011, vs. De Graafschap, Eredivisie

Thulani Serero played for Ajax Cape Town, an affiliation of Ajax Amsterdam in South Africa, before moving to Ajax Amsterdam for a fee of around 3-4M euros. Before his move to Ajax, Serero was named Young Player of the Year in South Africa, also winning his first caps for the national team. Serero had some trouble adapting to the Ajax style of play, resulting in not many appearances for the first team, instead playing often for the Jong Ajax side. After sporadically getting games, Serero has become a first team player and often a starter in the current 2013-2014 season.

Thulani Serero’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Thulani Serero is a quick and nimble centre midfield player. Very versatile, Serero can play on a host of other attacking positions, making him an ideal cover player, or a solid choice as your central midfielder. Serero has good offensive capabilities marred by some physical and tactical inabilities: he is a real lightweight player who has some trouble with team discipline.

Christian Poulsen ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 5

Nationality: Danish

Born: 28-2-1980, Asnaes

Height: 183 cm

Weight: 79 kg

Previous clubs: Evian FC, Liverpool, Juventus, Sevilla, Schalke ’04, FC Kopenhagen, Holbaek B&I, Asnaes.

Signed: 22-8-2012

Ajax debut: 16-9-2012, vs. RKC, Eredivisie

Christian Poulsen is a decorated veteran of the game, playing for a handful of European top clubs in their respective prime, such as Liverpool, Juventus and Schalke ’04. Poulsen joined Ajax on a Bosman in 2012, as a stopgap for Vurnon Anita, who left the club for Newcastle United, and for whom no real replacement was found within the Academy. Even though Poulsen played the majority of his career for top clubs, he never became league champion: only at Kopenhagen, early in his career, was he able to win a championship. At Ajax, Poulsen immediately won another league championship. Poulsen has been capped 92 times for the Danish national team.

Christian Poulsen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

In Football Manager, Poulsen still is an important part of your first team squad. He still is your best purely defensive midfielder, even if he is aging. With excellent mental attributes, Poulsen is your ideal cover player, or a decent first team starter. His deteriorating physicality and lacking attacking attributes do not make him the ideal candidate for an Ajax-style footballing defensive midfielder. His personality, including his 16 determination, make him a very good candidate for tutoring.

Lasse Schöne ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 20

Nationality: Danish

Born: 27-5-1986, Glostrup

Height: 178 cm

Weight: 75 kg

Previous clubs: N.E.C., De Graafschap, Heerenveen, Lyngby BK, Taastrup B70, Himmelev IF

Signed: 18-4-2012

Ajax debut: 5-8-2012, vs. PSV, Johan Cruyff Schaal

Lasse Schone joined the Heerenveen academy before ever making an appearance in Denmark. Schone was unable to break through during his time at Heerenveen before his eventual move to De Graafschap. While at De Graafschap, Schone proved to be a playmaker extraordinaire. His skills were an asset to the club and quickly recognized by bigger club N.E.C. Schone played 4 seasons in Nijmegen before agreeing to a free transfer to Ajax in 2012. Schone was assumed to be a substitute player, but eventually ended up playing the majority of the season as a first team starter. Schone has so far played 15 games for the Danish national team.

Lasse Schone’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Lasse Schone is a great utility player, able to play in multiple positions, such as defensive, central and attacking midfielder, striker and right forward. This makes him great for cover, although Schone can perform outstandingly as a first team starter. He is an accomplished set piece taker and has some good attributes for a play making role, at least in the Eredivisie.

Lucas Andersen ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Squad Number: 16

Nationality: Danish

Born: 13-9-1994, Aalborg

Height: 185 cm

Weight: 72 kg

Previous clubs: Aalborg BK, Aalborg Freja

Signed: 31-8-2012

Ajax debut: 8-12-2012, vs. FC Groningen, Eredivisie

Lucas Andersen is yet another young Dane currently employed by Ajax. Before joining Ajax, Andersen played his games for Aalborg BK. Before his 18th birthday, Andersen played 40 competition games for his previous club. In his first season at Ajax, Andersen mainly played for the reserves, where he scored several beautiful goals. Andersen almost got a goal in his debut game for Ajax, instead hitting the post. In the current season, Andersen has been getting regular playing time under manager Frank de Boer, albeit often as a left or right inside forward.

Lucas Andersen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

In FM, Andersen possesses some good attributes that make him a potential top attacking midfielder or inside forward. His speed combined with technical capabilities, make up for a great Eredivisie player. Andersen is pretty versatile and is young enough to become a good player in any position you desire. Get Andersen tutored to really kick-start his development.

Davy Klaassen ★★★★★★ 6/10

Squad Number: 18

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 21-2-1993, Hilversum

Height: 185 cm

Weight: 77 kg

Previous clubs: HSV Wasmeer, HVV de Zebra’s

Signed: n/a

Ajax debut: 22-11-2011

Davy Klaassen is yet another product of the Ajax Academy, joining the club in 2003. After years of being touted as the next Dennis Bergkamp, Klaassen had his official debut in 2011, getting a goal in the process. Klaassen captained the Ajax U19 side that had a terrific run in the Next Gen Series. An injury kept Klaassen at the side-lines for the majority of the 2012-2013 season. In the current season, Klaassen started in the reserves setup before getting games regularly for the first team.

Davy Klaassen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Davy Klaassen is still young enough to progress a lot, but considering his competition for a coveted spot in the first team squad, Klaassen will probably not be good enough to become a mainstay. His good sense of movement makes Klaassen an option for an attacking midfielder role, or as a striker. His limited technical abilities make Klaassen a liability on a higher level.

Eyong Enoh ★★★★★ 5/10

Squad Number: n/a

Nationality: Cameroon

Born: 23-3-1986, Kumba

Height: 174 cm

Weight: 70 kg

Previous clubs: Fulham (on loan), Ajax Cape Town, Turk Ocagi Limasol, Magusa TG SK, Mount Cameroon, Little Foot Tiko

Signed: Summer 2008

Ajax debut: 21-8-2008, vs. Feyenoord, Eredivisie

Eyong Enoh was part of Ajax Amsterdam affiliated club Ajax Cape Town, before his move to Ajax Amsterdam in 2008. In the following years, Enoh would never become an undisputed first team player. Enoh is known for his aggressive style of play, which netted him many yellow and red cards through the years. Besides his negative disciplinary record, Enoh’s poor vision and intelligence on the pitch make him a liability. After a stint at Fulham, Enoh currently plays for the Ajax Reserves, hoping for a new club to pick him up. Eyong Enoh has been capped 21 times for Cameroon.

Eyong Enoh’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Eyong Enoh just is not good enough to cut it for Ajax. His age hinders any possible progression. He will probably be, at best, a cover player for the defensive midfielder slot. Because Enoh has comparatively high wages, it is probably best to sell him early on for some extra walk around money, and to free up an even bigger chunk of your wage budget for key players, or new arrivals.

Lerin Duarte ★★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 8

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 11-8-1990, Rotterdam

Height: 169 cm

Weight: unknown

Previous clubs: Heracles Almelo, Sparta Rotterdam

Signed: 2-9-2013

Ajax debut: 14-9-2013, vs. PEC Zwolle, Eredivisie

Lerin Duarte was signed from Heracles Almelo for around 2M euros. After months of patient negotiations, Ajax secured the services of this left footed central midfielder on the last day of the transfer period. Before joining Ajax, Duarte played for Heracles and Sparta, known for his technical prowess and his set pieces. After a great 2012-2013 campaign for Heracles, Duarte was invited for the Dutch national team for a summer tour in Asia. Duarte did not get a game, but it was a clear sign of things to come.

Lerin Duarte's Football Manager 2014 Profile

Lerin Duarte shines at taking set pieces, such as free kicks and corners. Duarte has great technique coupled with good vision. As Duarte is 23 years old, there is still some room for improvement. Duarte is best played as a central midfielder, in the deep lying playmaker role.

[Chef Raekwon]

★★ Star rating for First Team representative of each players importance to the team, and their individual ability and potential. ★★

★★To view each player within Football Manager 2014 please click on 'Player X in Football Manager 2014' below their respective profile.★★

Attackers

Kolbein Sigthorsson ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 9

Nationality: Icelandic

Born: 14-3-1990, Reykjavik

Height: 185 cm

Weight: 76 kg

Previous clubs: AZ Alkmaar, HK Kopavogur, Vikingur Reykjavik

Signed: 4-7-2011

Ajax debut: 30-7-2011, vs. FC Twente, Johan Cruyff Schaal

Kolbein Sigthorsson played for AZ Alkmaar between 2007 and 2011, before making a 4,5M move to Ajax Amsterdam. In Alkmaar, Sigthorsson proved to be a good goalscorer, with 15 goals in 32 games. There were, however, some doubts about any success to come in Amsterdam. His former manager, Gert-Jan Verbeek, was worried about Sigthorsson’s injury proneness. These worries were not entirely unfounded, as Sigthorsson struggled for fitness for much of his first two seasons at Ajax. Even when fit, Sigthorsson is not an undisputed starter, facing heavy competition of Siem de Jong and Bojan Krkic for the number nine spot. Sigthorsson has played 20 games for the Icelandic national team.

Kolbeinn Sigthorsson’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Sigthorsson is a good striker for the Eredivisie. He has excellent attributes for a typical goalscorer, such as good finishing and heading, off the ball and composure attributes. Sigthorsson can be a good striker, if a-typical for Ajax. His lack of technique have not made him a fan favourite. His good strength and jumping ability, combined with his finishing, make him a niche player at Ajax, who has a role to play in the first team.

Bojan Krkic ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10

Squad Number: 11

Nationality: Spanish

Born: 28-8-1990, Linyola

Height: 175 cm

Weight: 74 kg

Previous clubs: Barcelona, A.C. Milan, AS Roma

Signed: on loan

Ajax debut: 27-7-2013, vs. AZ Alkmaar, Johan Cruyff Schaal

Bojan Krkic doesn’t really need an introduction. Before his first team games, Bojan scored over 800 goals in the cantara of Barcelona. Between 2007 and 2011, Bojan scored 26 goals in 104 competition games for the first team of Barcelona, but eventually was unable to really break through. To aid his development, Bojan subsequently loaned to respectively AS Roma and A.C. Milan, before being sent on loan to Ajax. Ajax have secured the services of this former Spanish wonderkid for at least one seasons, being able to extend the loan for another season. Bojan has been capped once for the Spanish national team.

Bojan’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

In Football Manager, Bojan is a well-rounded offensive player, quick, agile, fairly intelligent on the pitch and with good technical abilities. Without a shadow of doubt, Bojan will be one of your most important players. You can play Bojan as a left or right inside forward, or as a false nine. Bojan still has room for development, so eventually he could become a European top forward.

Viktor Fischer ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10

Squad Number: 7

Nationality: Danish

Born: 9-6-1994, Aarhus

Height: 180 cm

Weight: 71 kg

Previous clubs: FC Midtjylland, Aarhus GF

Signed: 19-4-2011

Ajax debut: 5-8-2012, vs. PSV, Johan Cruyff Schaal

Viktor Fischer is currently one of the brightest talents at Ajax. Viktor Fischer joined Ajax for a fee of reportedly 1,5M euros in 2011. After one year of adapting to a new country and a new club, Fischer made his debut in a disastrous game against PSV, in which he played a less than stellar part. After an initial setback to the Reserves, Fischer regained confidence in late 2011, which led to his breakthrough in the first team and a handful of goals. Fischer was crowned man of the match in an Eredivisie game against PSV and capped a brilliant performance against Feyenoord with two goals. In the current season, Fischer has lost some of his former brilliance, but no doubt this future star will soon start shining again. Viktor Fischer has been capped six times for the Danish national team.

Viktor Fischer’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

In FM, Fischer already is an excellent Eredivisie attacker, with bags of potential yet unfulfilled. Fischer can play most comfortably as an inside forward, but can become a choice striker or attacking midfielder, should you desire to do so.

Danny Hoesen ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Squad Number: 23

Nationality: Dutch

Born: 15-1-1991, Heerlen

Height: 186 cm

Weight: 81 kg

Previous clubs: Fulham, Fortuna Sittard, HJK Helsinki, RKSV Groene Ster, SV Eikenderveld

Signed: 29-8-2012

Ajax debut: 3-10-2012, vs. Real Madrid, Champions League

Danny Hoesen was poached by Fulham from the Fortuna Sittard youth team. Unable to breakthrough in London, Hoesen was loaned to respectively HJK Helsinki and Fortuna Sittard, before being sold to Ajax for around 300k (excluding a sell on percentage). At Ajax, Hoesen underwent a special physical program designed to make Hoesen more explosive, stronger and more agile. Earlier than anticipated, Hoesen made his debut in the first team. Hoesen has had some good performances, but his real breakthrough is yet to come.

Danny Hoesen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

In FM, Hoesen is a decent Eredivisie striker, with the potential to become a very good one. Hoesen is technical, strong and has good movement off the ball. These attributes make Hoesen a good centre forward, but he does run the risk of being rendered obsolete by younger players with better potential.

Tobias Sana ★★★★★★ 6/10

Squad Number: 21

Nationality: Swedish

Born: 11-7-1989, Göteborg

Height: 173 cm

Weight: 64 kg

Previous clubs: IFK Göteborg, Qviding FIF, Västra Frölunda IF, Marieholms BoIK

Signed: 1-8-2012

Ajax debut: 12-8-2012, vs. AZ Alkmaar, Eredivisie

Tobias Sana joined Ajax in 2012, after playing a small role in the Swedish league for IFK Göteborg. Sana became part of a transfer seemingly out of nowhere, as nobody saw this one coming. Ajax paid Göteborg a fee of around 300k. Sana had a storming series of games after his debut, where he seemed well worth the money. In his debut game for Ajax, Sana nabbed the title of match winner. His promise was marred by a series of subpar games, resulting in a demotion to the Ajax Reserves. In the 2013-2014 season, Sana has played only a marginal role in the first team. Sana has been capped twice for Sweden.

Tobias Sana’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Tobias Sana is a decent player in FM. Good technique and good movement make Sana a decent left or right winger, but his lack of physicality makes Sana at best a cover for the first team. As cover, Sana can play some part in your plans, but I suggest moving him as soon as a respectable offer comes in.

[Chef Raekwon]

★★ Star rating representative of overall strength and depth within each area of the squad.★★

★★To view each players Football Manager 2014 profile please click on their respective name where listed.★★

Reserve Team Analysis

The Reserves, or Jong Ajax, play their games at De Toekomst. From the 2013-2014 season onwards, Jong Ajax plays in the Dutch second division, the Jupiler League. It is impossible for Jong Ajax to be promoted, but playing in the Jupiler League does offer valuable practice to your youngsters, who are able to progress a lot more quickly as compared to the standard Reserves league. It is entirely possible to have U19 players, or first team players, in your Reserves setup as you start the game. Promote and demote players as you see fit. Let’s have an overview of all players in the Reserves setup.

Goalkeepers

Peter Leeuwenburgh ★★★★★★ 6/10

Peter Leeuwenburgh’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Peter Leeuwenburgh is a pretty good goalkeeper, with the potential to become either a good Eredivisie goalie or a decent Ajax keeper. Leeuwenburgh, in FM14, will not be able to win the club points on his own, but he could fulfil some role in the future.

Maurits Schmitz ★★★★ 4/10

Maurits Schmitz’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Maurits Schmitz is a backup keeper to the Reserves. This guy will never become good enough for your first team. He only has a year left on his contract: I suggest you move him to one of your affiliate clubs (Almere City or Volendam), offer him a mutual termination or just simply let his contract run out.

Defenders

Danzell Gravenberch ★★★★★★ 6/10

Danzell Gravenberch’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Danzell Gravenberch is not your typical defender. For starters, Gravenberch is extremely strong for his age. He has very well rounded attributes, making him a little bit of an odd duck. The most eye-catching about Gravenberch are his positions: Gravenberch is a natural striker, and an accomplished defender. This is due to the fact that in real life, Gravenberch is currently undergoing retraining, changing him from a striker to a central defender. His strength obviously makes him a defender to keep in mind, but if you wish, you can also maintain him as a striker. It’s your choice, really. At any rate, Gravenberch does have some potential, but he will probably not become a mainstay in the first team.

Bas Kuipers ★★★★ 4/10

Bas Kuipers’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Bas Kuipers, nephew to Dutch astronaut Andre Kuipers, is a left footed no-nonsense defender. The only catch is that he really is not that good. You can maintain Kuipers for cover in the Reserve team, but do not count on Kuipers progressing enough to become a first team player.

Stefan Marinkovic ★★★★★ 5/10

Stefan Marinkovic’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Stefan Marinkovic is a bit of an enigma. Marinkovic was one of the first foreign arrivals in the youth teams, but not many people know exactly why Ajax made a move for him. He hasn’t showed any extraordinary skill. Marinkovic was offered a trial at Heracles Almelo this summer, but was unable to convince. Marinkovic still has time remaining on his contract, time he is spending on the bench at the Reserves. As Marinkovic is one of the only left backs at the club, it is worthwhile to maintain him for at least one season. As soon as Dijks returns from his loan at Heerenveen, it is time for Marinkovic to move.

Derwin Martina ★★★ 3/10

Derwin Martina’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

I overheard another Ajax fan call Martina a ‘parody on a professional footballer’. That’s all you really need to know about Martina. Family of Cuco Martina, professional footballer at FC Twente, Martina is a right attacking midfielder turned right back. In the course of this season, Martina has played in different roles in different positions, either as cover or as a starter. In all games, Martina has proven to just not be good enough. Martina has one year left on his contract, I suggest you let it run out.

Kenny Tete ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Kenny Tete’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Kenny Tete is a right back, very solid defensively and a decent attacker. Officially, Tete is still an U19 player, but he has been moved up a team. In real life, Tete has also played as a left or centre back, but in FM, it is probably best to maintain him as a right back. With the right training schedule and the right tutor, Tete could become a better right back than van Rhijn or Ligeon. Be careful with this guy, and he could become the number one right back in the future.

Midfielders

Fabian Sporkslede ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Fabian Sporkslede’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Fabian Sporkslede was one of the players of the ’93 generation making it to the finals of the Next Gen Series. Sporkslede has also made his official debut for the first team: he slotted in an unfortunate own goal. Sporkslede can be played as either a central defender or as a defensive midfielder. Sporkslede is a capable player, jack of many trades, but master of none. This guy could become a part of your first team, but there are young players with as much, or more potential.

Stanislav Lobotka ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Stanislav Lobotka’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Stanislav Lobotka is on loan from partner club AS Trencin. You can buy this player right away, for 500k. I suggest you do this, as Lobotka has excellent potential and could become a first team player. Lobotka is a central midfielder, also capable of playing as a defensive midfielder. You can retrain him for any role you wish, either making him a good central midfielder, or a ball playing defensive midfielder.

Riechedly Bazoer ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10

Riechedly Bazoer’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

The high profile signing of Riechedly Bazoer from PSV to Ajax has led to a tsunami of media and fan attention. Bazoer was banned for the second half of the last season. In the first few games of the new season, we have seen why Ajax contracted Bazoer: even at his young age (16 at the start of the game), he has played some good games in the Jupiler League. Bazoer played as a central defender for PSV, but is being retrained at Ajax into a defensive midfielder. His attributes are very well rounded, making him either a superb ball playing defender, or a good defensive midfielder. Basically, train him as you see fit.

Abdelmalek el Hasnaoui ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Abdelmalek el Hasnaoui’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

I love Abdelmalek el Hasnaoui. El Hasnaoui is a very agile and skilled midfielder, able to fulfil a number of jobs. Technically very capable, el Hasnaoui is no doubt on his way to the Eredivisie. The only question is: will it be at Ajax, or for another club? El Hasnaoui has good potential, but you have to wonder if he can beat the other midfielders at the club. If el Hasnaoui progresses well enough, he can become a very handy little player indeed.

Sinan Keskin ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Sinan Keskin’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Sinan Keskin is another crafty midfielder, playing in an attacking midfield position. Keskin has only relatively late made the jump to a professional football club, joining Ajax at a reasonably late age. Even though Keskin was somewhat of a rough diamond, he has had some good performances for Ajax, in which his drive was one of his strong points. In FM, it is unlikely Keskin will become a certainty for the Ajax first team, but he could become a good backup player, if given the chance. If his development doesn’t stagnate, it looks quite likely for Keskin to become a good Eredivisie player.

Emran Barakzai ★★★★ 4/10

Emran Barakzai’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Emran Barakzai is the only amateur player at the club. Barakzai so far has not played a game in the 2013-2014 season, but he still is at the club. Barakzai is not good enough for a place in the Reserves, let alone the first team. His potential doesn’t allow him to ever become a good player for the club, so I suggest offering him a mutual termination, to allow more playing time to more gifted midfielders.

Attackers

Dejan Meleg ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Dejan Meleg’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Dejan Meleg is a Serbian player, who joined Ajax after the club loosened the knot around his neck, strung by his hack of an agent. Meleg looks like a younger Dusan Tadic: not the quickest outside player, but with a phenomenal left foot. Meleg can play in numerous positions, such as left and right winger, and attacking midfielder. Meleg could become a very good Ajax player, if given the right tutor, specialized training and sufficient playing time. I suggest hanging on to this guy and making him an important part of your Reserves, and possibly even the first team setup.

Lesley de Sa ★★★★★★ 6/10

Lesley de Sa’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Lesley de Sa has enjoyed somewhat of a breakthrough at Ajax this season, but in FM, he still is just a decent Reserves player. De Sa’s natural position is as a right winger, but he feels comfortable on the left wing as well. De Sa does have some potential, but it remains to be seen if he can become a first team player. De Sa possesses enough pace to be a threat to most teams, but will that be enough to make his career? You are the judge.

Marvin Höner ★★★★★★ 6/10

Marvin Höner’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Marvin Höner joined Ajax after a successful trial period. He signed a contract for two years, making him a low risk investment for the club. Höner feels at home as a striker, but can play on the left wing as well. It seems doubtful if this young German becomes a first team player, but perhaps you will be able to transform Höner from a mediocre Reserves player into a first team starter.

Jordi Bitter ★★★★★★ 6/10

Jordi Bitter’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Jordi Bitter’s development was hindered by a series of injuries which kept him side-lined for almost two entire seasons. Before his injuries, Bitter was a pacey striker or left winger, with mediocre technique, but enough abilities to be a challenge to any defence. After his injury, it remains doubtful if Bitter will ever reach the first team.

Nick de Bondt ★★★★★★ 6/10

Nick de Bondt’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Nick de Bondt was touted as the next great Dutch left winger, but his performances since his move from Vitesse to Ajax have never been convincing. De Bondt played second fiddle to Fischer in the U19’s, but with Fischer gone, de Bondt has never showed any sign of improvement. This guy only has a theoretical shot at the first team, but is a decent player for your Reserve squad.

Sam Hendriks ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Sam Hendriks’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Sam Hendriks joined in the past transfer window from De Graafschap. He had his professional debut for that club, but he thought his development would be quicker at a bigger club. Enter Ajax. Hendriks has played a few games for the Reserves up to now, and it seems as if he is a good player, but not yet first team material. In FM, Hendriks is a good talent, but it will be hard to win a place as the coveted number 9. Hold on to him, and see what he is capable of.

Boban Lazic ★★★★★ 5/10

Boban Lazic’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Boban Lazic has had a very small shot at the first team, by playing a minor role in a few pre-season friendlies. Lazic is a quick and agile player, but incapable of adding lethality or technique to the squad. In FM, Lazic has a small role to play, but he will never become good enough for the first team. I suggest loaning him to one of your affiliates for some playing time, but more importantly, to make room for other, more talented players at the wings.

Vincent Vermeij ★★★★ 4/10

No picture of Vincent Vermeij, this would exceed the number of pictures allowed per post on this board. Sorry!

Vincent Vermeij’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Vincent Vermeij is an a-typical Ajax player. Vermeij a long and strong attacker with some pace, but hasn’t fully grasped the concept of technique or craftiness. To some extent, this is logical, as Vermeij only joined the Academy two years ago, when he already played some first team games for an amateur club. He might be able to do a job for the Reserves as a target man, but he will never be good enough for the first team. I suggest you use Vermeij as backup for the Reserves and don’t extend his contract at the end of the season.

Geoffrey Castillion ★★★★★★ 6/10

Geoffrey Castillion's Football Manager 2014 Profile

Geoffrey Castillion is back at Ajax, after two unsuccessful loan spells. Ajax were unable to sell Castillion in the past transfer window, and therefore, he is back at the club. Castillion is one of your best strikers for the Reserves, but has very low hopes of a breakthrough in the first team. He just lacks the potential to become a first team player at Ajax. You can maintain him at the Reserves to try and make a dent in the Jupiler League, or you can try to sell him off to free up some of the wage budget.

[Chef Raekwon]

★★ Star rating representative of overall strength and depth within each area of the squad.★★

★★To view each players Football Manager 2014 profile please click on their respective name where listed.★★

The Youth Team Setup And Analysis

The U19 Ajax setup traditionally harbours a lot of talent. This is no different in FM14, with several huge talents in the U19 setup. There are some problem areas in the squad, most notably goalkeepers, left and right backs. Either the players in this position are insufficiently skilled to become first team players, or no youth players at all are present. I suggest looking into attracting a skilled left back or two, to challenge for first team roles in the future.

Upper row, from left to right:

Melvin Vissers, James Efmorfides, Vince Gino Dekker, Damian van Bruggen, Branco van der Boomen, Mike Grim, Jantje Vermolen, Jairo Riedewald, Damon Mirani, Ezra Walian, Queensy Menig, Jordy Bruijn.

Middle row, from left to right:

Orlando Trustfull (U19 manager), Gery Vink (U18 manager), Rob Kalse (auxiliary staff), Markus Bay, Djavan Anderson, Elton Acolatse, Sheraldo Becker, Ricardo Kishna, Indy Groothuizen, Xavier Mous, Jari Verbug, Anwar El-Ghazi, Samet Bulut, Aschraf El Mahdioui, Peter Teiwes, Ralph van der Horst, Bastiaan Bruning (last three are auxiliary staff).

First row, from left to right:

Nathan Leyder, Danny Bakker, Milan Vissie, Django Warmerdam, Leeroy Owusu, Pelle Clement, Tom Noordhoff, Zakaria El Azzouzi, Alen Custovic, Serhat Cakmak, Terry Lartey Sanniez, Daoud Bousbiba.

Missing on this picture: Robert van Koesveld.

Some players are evidently not in FM.

Goalkeepers

Norbert Alblas ★★★★ 4/10

Norbert Alblas’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Norbert Albas will become a decent goalkeeper for the Jupiler League, but he is nowhere good enough to become a first team player. You can maintain him for the U19 squad, as you are low on goalkeepers, or you can move him to another team right away.

Indy Groothuizen ★★★★★★ 6/10

Indy Groothuizen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Indy Groothuizen is a talented goalkeeper who might, some day, make it to the first team. He definitely has some potential, but it might not be good enough to become a first team goalkeeper, especially if you are committed to bring the club forward. By the time Groothuizen is done developing, you will probably have better goalkeepers lined up.

Defenders

Damon Mirani ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Damon Mirani’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Damon Mirani is a relatively new addition to the Ajax Academy, with only one full season of Ajax development under his belt. In this first season, right footed centre back Mirani was a starter for the U17 side and won De Toekomst’s Young Player of the Year award. He won this award because of his dedication and professionalism. In FM, Mirani definitely has potential, but he just is not one of the most talented defenders at the club. He might one day do a job for you in the first team, but the alternatives, who are sometimes only marginally older, might have a better shot at first team football.

Damian van Bruggen ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Damian van Bruggen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Damian van Bruggen is another good right footed centre back, who plays in the same generation as Damon Mirani. Van Bruggen is physically a little more advanced than Mirani, but both players have roughly the same potential. Just as was the case with Mirani, van Bruggen lacks the great potential to become a first team starter, especially if you are interested in advancing the club.

Leeroy Owusu ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Leeroy Owusu’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

I really, really like Leeroy Owusu in real life. Owusu is a pacey right back, who occasionally plays on the left flank, with good technical ability. Owusu is often able to get dangerous crosses in whilst remaining defensively solid. Owusu is one of the only right backs at the club, but his tragedy is that Kenny Tete is also a highly rated right back, who is just one year older than Owusu. In FM, Owusu has good potential, but because Tete will probably edge him out for a place in the first team squad, Owusu will probably never become good enough to play as a first team starter.

Nathan Leyder ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Nathan Leyder’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Nathan Leyder is a very young and recent signing to Ajax. This Belgian central defender has caused somewhat of a stir, because he joins Ajax after being bullied (in real life) at his former club. Leyder indeed does look somewhat timid, which in all honesty is not a good personality to have at a club such as Ajax, but we are all looking forward to see Leyder in action. On the pitch, Leyder does look like a skilled player, but it is too early to tell if Leyder will challenge for a first team role.

Robert van Koesveld ★★★★★ 5/10

Robert van Koesveld’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Robert van Koesveld joined Ajax 1,5 seaon ago from Heerenveen, but he has been unable to make a favourable impression. While van Koesveld is old enough to still play for the U19 team, he often finds himself playing for the U18 team or as cover for the Reserves. In FM, van Koesveld is not a bad talent, but he will probably never become good enough to challenge for a first team position.

Tom Noordhoff ★★★★★ 5/10

Tom Noordhoff’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Tom Noordhoff is a long time player of Ajax, but most fans don’t deem Noordhoff good enough to become a first team player. He might become a decent Eredivisie player, or a good Jupiler league defender, but it remains to be seen if Noordhoff can play any role at all for the first team.

Jairo Riedewald ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Jairo Riedewald’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Jairo Riedewald is a very talented left footed central defender or left back. Riedewald has an impressive physical presence (considering he is born in 1996 and can play 2 seasons for the U19 team) and good footballing capabilities. In FM, Riedewald has good potential, which allows him to become a good stand-in for Denswil in the future, or possibly a first team starter. It all depends on his progression and development, so I suggest you take good care of this fine young man.

Midfielders

Jordy Bruijn ★★★★★★ 6/10

Jordy Bruijn’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Jordy Bruijn is a good talent at the defensive midfielder position. Bruijn’s biggest weakness is his frailty: Bruijn is exceptionally small with little chances of him ever becoming of at least average height. Bruijn is a good footballing defensive midfielder, but his physical attributes might eventually be what holds him back at the first team level. Keep good track of his development, because his footballing skills could become important in games where you are constantly pressuring the opposition, allowing Bruijn to exploit the space around him.

Branco van den Boomen ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Branco van den Boomen’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Branco is another a-typical Ajax player. He joined 2,5 seasons ago from Willem II, and has shown he has enough skill to become a force to be reckoned with. Van den Boomen possesses excellent passing skills, but he has the agility of a tank. In a crucial position such as the defensive midfielder position, this could mean trouble. If you are able to raise his agility to acceptable levels, maintain his footballing motives and make him a good defensive player, you could have a good player at your club. You could also try to turn van den Boomen into a ball playing defender. At any rate: a player to keep tracking.

Djavan Anderson ★★★★★ 5/10

Djavan Anderson’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Anderson is a versatile player, who lacks any real ability to become a long term improvement for Ajax 1. Anderson can best be played as a defensive midfielder or as a right back. This Dutch-Brazilian player could become a decent Jupiler League player, but I suggest moving him to a new club in order to facilitate the development of better talents.

James Efmorfidis ★★★★★★★ 7/10

James Efmorfidis Football Manager 2014 Profile

James Efmorfidis has a very special background. Efmorfidis beat cancer at a very young age, and has played for Barcelona, Real Madrid and AEK Athena, because his parents were constantly on the move. Since 2011, Efmorfidis has started his second stint at Ajax and he has shown to be an agile, quick-thinking and technically skilled midfielder. Efmorfidis is not without his weaknesses: he is physically vulnerable, but if you train him sufficiently, Efmorfidis could become a good to very good first team footballer for you.

Melvin Vissers ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Melvin Vissers’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Melvin Vissers is another young signing from another club, having joined Ajax in 2012 from talent factory Sparta Rotterdam. Vissers has proven to be technically sufficient, but what sets him apart is good off the ball movement and his drive. If you develop him well enough, Vissers could become a good first team player for you in the future. Track his progression and do not be afraid to give this lad a chance if the opportunity arises.

Markus Bay ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Markus Bay’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

The next Christian Eriksen? Of course it is way too early to tell, but it does look like Bay has everything to become a very good Ajax player. Technically very good for his age, Bay seems like a young player raring to meet his future. Bay can play a couple more season for the U19 team, but it might be best to move him on to the Reserves a little bit early to really kickstart his development.

Abdelhak Nouri ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10

Abdelhak Nouri’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

This, ladies and gentlemen, is the hidden gem you have all been waiting for. Abdelhak Nouri, remember the name, is arguably the brightest talent at the youth setup of Ajax. At the start of the game, Nouri is very frail, but also already possesses excellent abilities that set him apart from most other midfielders at the club. Watch over this kid well and do everything you can to aid his development, because one day, Nouri will become a first team starter.

Attackers

Elton Acolatse ★★★★★★ 6/10

Elton Acolatse’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Elton Acolatse might be known for scoring the winning goal at the U17’s European Championship tournament two years ago. This pacey right winger, who can also play on the left wing, does no doubt have a future as a professional footballer, but the grand question is: will this be at Ajax? Because Acolate does offer little technical capabilities, I’m inclined to say no. He might be able to do a job for you, but there are other, brighter prospects at the club who can play in the same position as this lad.

Sheraldo Becker ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Sheraldo Becker’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Sheraldo Becker is a player that could challenge for a first team spot in the near future. Becker has enough potential to become a first team starter, but he does need some work to be able to make an impact at Ajax. Get him tutored by a player with the right personality, such as Siem de Jong, and watch this guy make an impact. Becker can play as a striker or as a right winger. Treat Becker well, and he might just pay you back handsomely.

Daoud Bousbiba ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Daoud Bousbiba’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Bousbiba is your prototype street football player: gifted with a great technique, Daoud Bousbiba could become good enough for the first team. He does, however, lack some attributes that really make him an outstanding winger or inside forward. Hang on to this kid and try to develop him as good as you can, and he could grow into a good inside forward for you. And if not, you have just made the Eredivisie a stronger competition!

Anwar el-Ghazi ★★★★★★ 6/10

Anwar el-Ghazi’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Anwar el-Ghazi’s favourite professional footballer is Christiano Ronaldo, and by the looks of it, el-Ghazi has inherited his style. With flashy moves, supplied by his ‘use tricks’ PPM, his length (el-Ghazi is almost 1,90 meters) and his playing style, el-Ghazi is sure to become one of the next right wingers for Ajax. In FM, this is not entirely the case. Still, el-Ghazi could become good enough for the first team, but it is more likely that he will end up at another Eredivisie team.

Ricardo Kishna ★★★★★★★★★ 9/10

Ricardo Kishna’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Long-time players of FM already know wonderkid Ricardo Kishna. Kishna, in FM14, again is one of the top prospects of the Ajax Academy. Kishna joined Ajax years ago from ADO Den Haag, and has made an impact at the club. His development in the past few years has been marred by two dreadful injuries, which have destabilized his knee. Kishna is an injury prone but excellent option at the left or right wing, but also capable of playing is a striker or as an attacking central midfielder. If you can keep Kishna fit and if you can get his personality from Fairly Determined to Resolute by way of tutoring, you no doubt have a future first team starter on your hands. Kishna does need micromanagement in order to succeed, but the payoff is huge.

Queensy Menig ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Queensy Menig’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Queensy Menig is another pacey forward, who can play in most offensive positions and roles. Much like Becker, this guy really does have a shot at first team football. His limited technical abilities are somewhat worrisome, but it’s nothing good training schedules cannot fix. Be mindful of this prospect and keep watch over him, as his development can lead to Menig becoming a leading Eredivisie player in the future.

Vince Gino Dekker ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Vince Dekker’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Vince ‘Gino’ Dekker is a prototype left winger, with good technique but excellent crossing and set piece capabilities. Him and Nouri have been playing together for a long time at Ajax, and it shows. At age 16, he is already one of the most accomplished crossers of the ball at Ajax, in general. Dekker does lack speed, something he is working hard on in real life. This lack of speed could mean Dekker is not good enough to cut it as a left winger: even in this situation, Dekker could become a good centre half. In FM, there is still plenty of time to develop Dekker. Improve his quickness as early as you can: if you are able to get his quickness to acceptable levels, Dekker can really challenge for a first team role.

Nabi Hakimzadeh ★★★★★★★ 7/10

Nabi Hakimzadeh’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Nabi Hakimzadeh (everybody just calls this guy Nabi), is a right winger who joined Ajax in 2012 from Sparta, after being sent away from Ajax in an earlier stage. Almost immediately after his transfer, Nabi was injured and he missed the majority of the 2012-2013 season. Meanwhile, Nabi is struggling to regain fitness, which could hinder his development. In FM, Nabi can become a leading Eredivisie right winger. To achieve this, you will need to monitor Nabi’s progression.

Ottar Magnus Karlsson ★★★★★★★★ 8/10

Ottar Magnus Karlsson’s Football Manager 2014 Profile

Ottar Magnus Karlsson joined Ajax in the summer of 2012. This Icelandic striker convinced Ajax scouts by being a very a-typical striker. Karlsson is a towering striker, but still has ‘quick feet’ and good technique. These attributes make Karlsson a player to watch. He definitely has the potential to reach the first team, but in order to achieve this, you will need to aid his development to your best abilities.

[Chef Raekwon]

Reserved for Ajax Staff Analysis

[Chef Raekwon]

Transfer targets:

Goalkeepers:

Jeroen Houwen

Jeroen Houwen is a young Dutch goalkeeper, currently playing for Vitesse. In real life, Houwen is touted as a bright talent, perhaps one day taking over goalkeeping duties from Vitesse favourite Piet Velthuizen. Born in 1996, Houwen is 17 years old at the start of the game. If you are able to nab Houwen at the start of the game, Houwen will become an official home grown player by the time he reaches 21. Houwen is probably not good enough to strengthen the first team straight away, but he is a significant improvement over all goalkeepers in the Reserves or in the U19 side.

Maarten Stekelenburg

After years of playing for Ajax Amsterdam, Stekelenburg got his transfer to a European top club, namely AS Roma. His two years in Italy were poor, and he was transferred to Fulham at the start of the 2013-2014 season. This means you will not be able to sign Maarten Stekelenburg at the start of your game in FM14. Stekelenburg was touted as the next Edwin van der Sar, taking over the number 1 jersey from the legendary goalkeeper after the European Championship in 2008. With the Dutch national team, Stekelenburg played and lost the 2010 World Championship against Spain. With some good reflexes, most notably against Brazil in the quarter finals, Stekelenburg was an instrumental part of the squad.

Defenders:

John Heitinga

John Heitinga is another player well known to Ajax fans. The story of Heitinga is remarkable: after a clinic to celebrate his birthday as a young boy, Heitinga was invited to join the Ajax Academy at a young age. After he made his debut for the first team, disaster struck, and Heitinga was heavily injured. Eventually, Heitinga was able to recuperate and earned a transfer to Atletico Madrid. Heitinga did not succeed at Madrid and has played the past few years for Everton. Is it time to bring Heitinga home to Ajax? As the new manager, it is up to you to decide!

Anthony Reveillere

Anthony Reveillere is an aging French right wing back. At first, his name as a transfer target might appear to be odd. What would a thirty plus year old French defender bring to the Eredivisie? Well, it is quite simple. Reveillere has no club at the start of the game. This means, if you feel like paying is wages, you can get him for free at the start of the game. Reveillere is good enough to become your undisputed starting right back. His personality is a very good one for tutoring (Resolute). You can move Ricardo van Rhijn to his natural centre back position, where he can battle with Veltman and van der Hoorn for the number 3 jersey. Allez les Blues!

Midfielders:

Keisuke Honda

Keisuke Honda as a transfer target really is a no brainer. The difference with so many other top clubs in other nations is that Honda actually has a history in the Netherlands: before being transferred to CSKA Moscow, Honda played for second tier Dutch club VVV Venlo. Honda quickly outgrew the Eredivisie, and now is your chance to bring him back to Holland. Honda comes with great technical, mental and physical attributes, and a good personality to boot. You can get him for free at the end of the calendar year, or you can opt to buyout his current contract at CSKA Moscow for a total of 1,9M euros. If you feel like buying a superb playmaker, Honda is your man.

Clarence Seedorf

Clarence Seedorf does not really need an introduction. Seedorf still is the youngest player at Ajax to ever have his debut. At the tender age of 16 years, seven months and 28 days, Seedorf would be one of the youngest Dutch players to ever have his debut in the Eredivise. Seedorf won the Champions League four times playing for three different clubs. Seedorf was not really able to make his mark in the Dutch national team, which I personally feel is a tragedy. Seedorf is no doubt one of the very best Dutch midfielders of all time, with a great personality and with great importance to the Surinam-Dutch community. In FM, you can’t buy Seedorf at the start of the game. Seedorf does, however, become a free agent after one season. For minimal wages you can secure his services. Even at his advanced age, Seedorf can become a first team starter, contributing many goals and assists from a deep lying playmaker role. Seedorf has the Leader personality, making him a good choice for a tutor or as a (vice-)captain.

Bilal Ould-Chikh

Bilal Ould-Chikh is a very young Dutch creative midfielder who plays for FC Twente. Ould-Chikh has been linked with Ajax during the past summer, but instead, Ould-Chikh opted for a contract at Twente. At the start of the game, Ould-Chikh is not yet attached to Twente, so if you hurry up, you are able to poach him without really breaking the bank. Ould-Chikh has the Dutch nationality and no doubt has a great future ahead of him. If you find yourself in need of a quality young attacking midfielder, take a look at his little gem here.

Kenneth Paal

Another nugget of a player is Kenneth Paal. Getting Kenneth Paal to play for Ajax will be hard: you need to pull a lot of moves to get this young PSV player to sign for Ajax. It can be done, but it will be hard. Paal is another creative midfielder of the 1997 generation. While he is unable to contribute right away, Paal can play a few more years for the U19s while you groom him for a first team spot.

Attackers

Richairo Zivkovic

Zivkovic is one of the biggest Dutch attacking talents currently on display in the Eredivisie. In real life, Ajax was reportedly very close to signing Zivkovic a year ago, but he decided to stay at Groningen. At this point in time, Zivkovic is a well-known youngster on these FM boards, as he has great potential and is unattached at the start of the game. This means that you can get Zivkovic for just a few hundred thousand euros. Even though Zivkovic might not the most expensive player in the market, you will need to move quickly to secure his services. At the start of the game, almost all European superpowers are interested in this talent. Move quickly, move decisively.

Ola John

Ola John joined Benfica last year, after two great seasons for FC Twente. The youngster even made it as far as the Dutch national team. While at Benfica, John enjoyed a good first season, especially for a player as young as he is. Even though he had a few good games for Benfica in the preceding season, John seems to be out of favour in Portugal. In real life, John is linked to Ajax on numerous occasions, with manager Frank de Boer explicitly stating his desire to attract John to Ajax. In FM, John would like to play for Ajax, even though getting John will mean you spend a sizable chuck of your transfer budget. His agent owns a portion of his rights, so if you wish to own John 100%, you will need to buy his shares as well.

[Chef Raekwon]

Reserved for announcements and community records

Announcement #5

Added a section about the U19 Youth Team Setup and Analysis.

Announcement #4

Added a section about the Reserve Team Setup and Analysis.

Announcement #3

Added the transfer targets section.

Announcement #2

Added player profile pictures for all players, added Mike van der Hoorn and Lerin Duarte in the first team analysis. Also fixed minor text and layout issues.

Announcement #1

First, and most important, of all, I lifted most of the layout from tommonufc and his immense FM13 Newcastle thread (found at: http://community.sigames.com/showthread.php/321779-FM13-Newcastle-United-Alan-Pardew-and-The-Eight-Year-Plan.). I have been a secret admirer of his style. I took over this thread since the original creator did not show up for various weeks. This left me with little time to prepare this thread, and because of this, I loaned his layout.

If you see any mistakes, either in the text or in the layout, please notify me of this.

I will update this thread in the near future, as soon as I have written more about the youth setup and the second team. I will add the profiles for the players already in this thread later today.

[JBC#1]

Trying to upload screenshots but not able to figure out how/too lazy.

In 2025 with Ajax and have won 7 Eredivisies, the CL, the Europa League x 2, a couple of European Super Cups, the World Club Champ and have a net transfer profit of over £400m from buying youngsters with good potential and turning them into stars.

Last few seasons been messing about a bit holidaying and sometimes reloading when the computer makes a complete mess of things because it got a bit boring as my squad is so unbelievably superior to the rest of the league and I had won everything. Have a transfer budget of £200m and I'll upload the save if anyone wants a go?

Edit: Here is a link to my steam screenshot account if it works - http://steamcommunity.com/profiles/76561198002285544/screenshots/?appid=231670

Edit: Here is the link to the save game - http://rapidshare.com/share/1BE60EAF8FDE7D101818DDB1F1507FEC

[Hoarau]

Fantastic man, great read.

Ill be starting my yearly Ajax save to run alongside my Shakhtar once the new patch drops.

Brilliant work again.

[Chef Raekwon]

Small announcement:

Player profiles have been added, you can click on the link to view any player. Also added Mike van der Hoorn and Lerin Duarte.

Not sure when I have time to do the rest, but my plan is to keep working every day until every part of the topic is done.

Trying to upload screenshots but not able to figure out how/too lazy.

In 2025 with Ajax and have won 7 Eredivisies, the CL, the Europa League x 2, a couple of European Super Cups, the World Club Champ and have a net transfer profit of over £400m from buying youngsters with good potential and turning them into stars.

Last few seasons been messing about a bit holidaying and sometimes reloading when the computer makes a complete mess of things because it got a bit boring as my squad is so unbelievably superior to the rest of the league and I had won everything. Have a transfer budget of £200m and I'll upload the save if anyone wants a go?

Edit: Here is a link to my steam screenshot account if it works - http://steamcommunity.com/profiles/76561198002285544/screenshots/?appid=231670

Thanks for your reply! I agree, after 10+ seasons, the Eredivisie can become somewhat tedious. There are, however, some challenges to keep it interesting all around. I will post these challenges at a later time!

Fantastic man, great read.

Ill be starting my yearly Ajax save to run alongside my Shakhtar once the new patch drops.

Brilliant work again.

Thanks for the praise! It is/was a lot of work, but I am somewhat happy with the results!

I'm always looking forward for your updates and contributions to this thread! Hopefully you start your Ajax save a little bit early this year

[Chef Raekwon]

Added a section about transfer targets. If you found any transfer targets of yourself, be sure to mention them in this thread!

[JBC#1]

Transfer Targets: Frickson Erazo, Marcelo (Atletico Paranese, Brazil), Paal is a great buy and Praet of Anderlecht is another great purchase.

[flogside]

Best Team Guide so far for this years version of FM. Excellent mate, ill now start an Ajax save to run alongside my Zulte Waregem one.

[Chef Raekwon]

Best Team Guide so far for this years version of FM. Excellent mate, ill now start an Ajax save to run alongside my Zulte Waregem one.

Thanks a lot for your praise! The best compliment would be regular updates of your Ajax game! Keep us posted!

[flogside]

Will do! Ive yet to get into a game yet (like the last 4 years of FM) so hopefully along with the Zulte game this Ajax one should do the trick! Your guide is so informative, just what i like! Plus as a lifelong Arsenal fan they also have my favourite player of all time on the staff payroll (doesnt take a genius to guess who that is...) Ill try to get going tonight, im not always one to do updates but ill try and contribute to the thread nonetheless. Thanks again Chef Raekwon!!!

[Jogo Bonito]

Fantastic thread, so much detail! It's been a few years since I managed Ajax (I think FM12) but this deserved some more positive feedback

[Chef Raekwon]

Another small announcement: I have added a section about the Reserve Team, and all the talent it holds!

Will do! Ive yet to get into a game yet (like the last 4 years of FM) so hopefully along with the Zulte game this Ajax one should do the trick! Your guide is so informative, just what i like! Plus as a lifelong Arsenal fan they also have my favourite player of all time on the staff payroll (doesnt take a genius to guess who that is...) Ill try to get going tonight, im not always one to do updates but ill try and contribute to the thread nonetheless. Thanks again Chef Raekwon!!!

I can imagine, Dennis Bergkamp is my childhood hero too. It's great to see him on the bench, right next to Frank de Boer, every single game. Really makes you feel lucky to have those icons look after the club.

As an Arsenal fan, I hope you can appreciate the next update: I have added all Reserve Team players, which has a bunch of talented youth. Perhaps this could convince you to start your Ajax game sooner than expected?

Fantastic thread, so much detail! It's been a few years since I managed Ajax (I think FM12) but this deserved some more positive feedback

Thanks a lot! I do my best, it's great if hard work is recognized! Appreciate it, thanks!

[Cleon]

A great thread. It makes me want to play as Ajax again

[tyro]

Very nice thread. I have never played in the Netherlands and always wanted to try with Ajax. Maybe this year I will.

[Chef Raekwon]

A great thread. It makes me want to play as Ajax again

Thanks Cleon, what's stopping you? That *bleep* Santos game? I'd say jump ship and join us on the dark side

Very nice thread. I have never played in the Netherlands and always wanted to try with Ajax. Maybe this year I will.

Appreciated sir! This year could be yours! Hope to see you start a game soon!

[Cedrik]

Great thread mate! Makes me proud to be a fan of Ajax

[Cleon]

Not doing a bit on tactics this year? I'm always intrigued to see what Ajax fans end up using.

[Chef Raekwon]

Great thread mate! Makes me proud to be a fan of Ajax

Thanks a lot man! Do you have a current Ajax save? Tell us more!

Not doing a bit on tactics this year? I'm always intrigued to see what Ajax fans end up using.

I think I will. In my current save, which I have put on hold at the moment, I found a nice variant of a 4-1-2-2-1 I'm eager to post. Just getting the enormous wall of texts on various sections up are my primary concerns. I have some tricks up my sleeve, but it might take a while to get everything done.

Up next: the Ajax U19 setup. I'll start writing today.

[Cedrik]

Thanks a lot man! Do you have a current Ajax save? Tell us more!

Nope, not at all. I am Dutch, so I know the league pretty well and find myself getting annoyed by the unrealistic stuff there, Heerenveen becomming Champions, strange transfers (Sven Bender to PSV for example) and also the totally unrealistic appointing of managers (Rijkaard, Magath (!), Verbeek).

So love Ajax, but not going to play in the Dutch league

Looking forward to an FM in the future where the overall 'Dutch philosophy' is in the game. (Clubs aiming for young talented players, and young talented managers).

[Chef Raekwon]

Nope, not at all. I am Dutch, so I know the league pretty well and find myself getting annoyed by the unrealistic stuff there, Heerenveen becomming Champions, strange transfers (Sven Bender to PSV for example) and also the totally unrealistic appointing of managers (Rijkaard, Magath (!), Verbeek).

So love Ajax, but not going to play in the Dutch league

Looking forward to an FM in the future where the overall 'Dutch philosophy' is in the game. (Clubs aiming for young talented players, and young talented managers).

I understand, it sometimes really is a shame. As an AR for the Dutch research staff, I know there often is little we can do, but if you encounter something totally unrealistic or infactual data, please notify us here: http://community.sigames.com/showthread.php/363332-Holland-(Official)-Data-Issues

Another small announcement: U19 Youth Team setup and Analysis is now live!

[JBC#1]

I understand, it sometimes really is a shame. As an AR for the Dutch research staff, I know there often is little we can do, but if you encounter something totally unrealistic or infactual data, please notify us here: http://community.sigames.com/showthread.php/363332-Holland-(Official)-Data-Issues

Another small announcement: U19 Youth Team setup and Analysis is now live!

One you start a game then it becomes removed from reality. I know its annoying but the game wouldn't be as fun if it exactly replicated everything that goes on in RL

[Cleon]

I've known about Abdelhak Nouri for quite some time now. He has bags of potential IRL and its nice to see he's highly thought of in FM now too.

[Chef Raekwon]

One you start a game then it becomes removed from reality. I know its annoying but the game wouldn't be as fun if it exactly replicated everything that goes on in RL

True, but as you probably know, realism is one of FM's most important tenants. This means the really extraordinary stuff has no place in it, even though it has become removed from reality. There's no harm done in reporting the strange stuff.

[Chef Raekwon]

I've known about Abdelhak Nouri for quite some time now. He has bags of potential IRL and its nice to see he's highly thought of in FM now too.

Truly one of the best creative midfielders of an already very strong Dutch 1997 generation.

[Hoarau]

That's it I've buckled and I'm starting my Ajax save today, I can't wait for the patch any longer. Hopefully by the time I do all my pre season preparation over the next couple of days it may well be out.

I don't have any set guidelines that I plan to follow, so I am open to any suggestions? I am however a big stickler for raiding Scandinavia so I feel a lot of those brought in may be from that area, espically as I search for a replacement for Eriksen

I had great success with Kenny Tete last year but I often found myself in a personal battle with myself as to how to give him and van Rhijn adaqute game time..

[Chef Raekwon]

That's it I've buckled and I'm starting my Ajax save today, I can't wait for the patch any longer. Hopefully by the time I do all my pre season preparation over the next couple of days it may well be out.

I don't have any set guidelines that I plan to follow, so I am open to any suggestions? I am however a big stickler for raiding Scandinavia so I feel a lot of those brought in may be from that area, espically as I search for a replacement for Eriksen

I had great success with Kenny Tete last year but I often found myself in a personal battle with myself as to how to give him and van Rhijn adaqute game time..

Good to hear, mate! Can't wait to see what you cook up this time!

It's always fun to try and only play with what comes through the youth academy. If you want to stay in line with Ajax' philosophies, you will want to focus as much as possible on bringing through young players from your setup, occasionally poaching a few from other Dutch clubs and signing the best foreign talents (max. 18 years old) from Scandinavia, Belgium and Serbia. You can also try and bring back as many Ajax greats as possible!

You can play Tete as a right back, while van Rhijn plays as your centre back. He is, after all, a natural CB. If that doesn't work for you, either sell one of the two, or work with some sort of rotation schedule.

[john1]

Cracking OP Will probably start with Ajax when the new patch comes out.

[horseman_Plague]

Ok yesterday's game got me geared up! Starting an ajax save right now.

[JBC#1]

True, but as you probably know, realism is one of FM's most important tenants. This means the really extraordinary stuff has no place in it, even though it has become removed from reality. There's no harm done in reporting the strange stuff.

Yeah I agree with you there should be a balance but creating the preset balance whilst allowing each new game to develop in its own unique way would be difficuly from a programming point of view and narrow the players possibilites.

[roberto201]

Hey, excellent thread. I wasn't sure who to do a save with but after reading this I have started with Ajax. I'm not to sure about tactics to use/ who to buy and sell so please can you give me some feedback?

Transfers In: Steven Defour - 2.7mil Transfers Out: Emran Barakzai - free transfer

Richairo Zivkovic - 550k Tobias Sana - loan

Alexander Buttner - 2.1 mil Eyong Enoh - 3.2 mil

Frickson Erazo - 325k

I am currently playing a deep 4-2-3-1 and the following is my best eleven (I think!)

GK: Vermeer (Goalkeeper - defend)

RB: Van Rhijn (Complete wing back - attack)

RCB: Veltman (Centre defender - defend)

LCB: Moisander (Centre defender - defend)

LB: Blind (Complete wing back - attack)

DMCR: Poulsen (Ball winning mid - defend)

DMCL: Defour (DLP - support)

AMR: Bojan (Inside forward - support)

AMC: Schoone (Attacking mid - support)

AML: Fischer (Inside forward - attack)

FC: De Jong (False nine - support)

I've set up with a fluid philosophy and control strategy. The shouts are Shorter passing, Pass into space, Run at defence, Drill crosses, Roam from positions, Offside trap, Tighter marking, Be more expressive.

I want to play possession football which is why I've gone with Control, shorter passing but also play attractive football like Ajax do IRL. Trying to emulate 'Total football'. Only done pre-season so not sure if this will work but I would just like to know your opinions, especially Ajax fans or people who already have a save with them. Hopefully this can be a long save and looking forward to developing some good youngsters in years to come!

[Chef Raekwon]

Hey, excellent thread. I wasn't sure who to do a save with but after reading this I have started with Ajax. I'm not to sure about tactics to use/ who to buy and sell so please can you give me some feedback?

Transfers In: Steven Defour - 2.7mil Transfers Out: Emran Barakzai - free transfer

Richairo Zivkovic - 550k Tobias Sana - loan

Alexander Buttner - 2.1 mil Eyong Enoh - 3.2 mil

Frickson Erazo - 325k

I am currently playing a deep 4-2-3-1 and the following is my best eleven (I think!)

GK: Vermeer (Goalkeeper - defend)

RB: Van Rhijn (Complete wing back - attack)

RCB: Veltman (Centre defender - defend)

LCB: Moisander (Centre defender - defend)

LB: Blind (Complete wing back - attack)

DMCR: Poulsen (Ball winning mid - defend)

DMCL: Defour (DLP - support)

AMR: Bojan (Inside forward - support)

AMC: Schoone (Attacking mid - support)

AML: Fischer (Inside forward - attack)

FC: De Jong (False nine - support)

I've set up with a fluid philosophy and control strategy. The shouts are Shorter passing, Pass into space, Run at defence, Drill crosses, Roam from positions, Offside trap, Tighter marking, Be more expressive.

I want to play possession football which is why I've gone with Control, shorter passing but also play attractive football like Ajax do IRL. Trying to emulate 'Total football'. Only done pre-season so not sure if this will work but I would just like to know your opinions, especially Ajax fans or people who already have a save with them. Hopefully this can be a long save and looking forward to developing some good youngsters in years to come!

Hi Roberto, thanks for starting a save and sharing your progression with us!

You have done some good signings: Dufour, Zivkovic and Buttner can all add something to Ajax. I will add something about tactics in the near future, but I haven't got around to doing that yet.

I have had great success, both domestically and internationally, with some sort of a 4-1-2-2-1.

Very fluid; control

GK: Sweeper Keeper: Defend (Kenneth Vermeer)

RB: Complete Wing Back: Attack (Ricardo van Rhijn)

CB: Ball Playing Defender: Stopper (Joël Veltman)

CB: Ball Playing Defender: Cover (Niklas Moisander)

LB: Complete Wing Back: Attack (Nicolai Boilesen)

DMC: Half Back: Defend (Daley Blind)

MC: Attacking Playmaker: Attack (Lasse Schöne)

MC: Deep Lying Playmaker: Support (Lerin Duarte)

AMR: Inside Forward: Attack (Bojan)

AML: Inside Forward: Attack (Viktor Fischer)

ST: Complete Forward: Support (Siem de Jong)

This attempts to emulate Ajax's current tactics, which are adapted from Barcelona's possession tactics, which are in turn adapted from Total Football. In your case, I would suggest playing Buttner as a LB and Dufour as your MC:DLP. Use any shout aimed at keeping possession and don't play a high tempo game.

Good luck, and keep us posted!

[Hoarau]

Well i was gonna start my Ajax save but wanted to wait for the new patch, after deciding to start it yesterday it just so happened that the patch was released! So that was most fortunate. As i said the other day i don't have any set guidelines for this save, so i would be open to anyone advising me with a path perhaps to follow. Most of my signings, as youll soon see will come from Scandinavia, South America or Africa with im sure one or two exceptions.

Of course the big draw with Ajax is the outstanding youth teams and players in them, add that to the possibility of getting some top newgens through our ranks. I plane to give a lot of the youth players a chance from the get go, im a big advocate of the more game time a player can get will see them improve more, this of course could come back to sting me as thier inexperience may cost us points throughout the season ahead, but for them and me it'll be a leanring curve.

Tactics :

I spent pre-season messing around more than i should have if im honest and as a result we had kind of an up and down run of results, I decided to go back and keep it simple and take my time in adapting to a certain style i may want to implament in later seasons.

Transfers :

As you can see i went perhaps a tad overboard on my recruitment from Scandinavia, the hunt for a replcment for Eriksen is still on but the players i have brought in all have massive potential and will see regular game time this season. A couple of them had loan back clauses so they're back at thier original clubs with at least the prospect of a full season of games which is a bonus. If anyone wants a screenshot of any or all of the players brought in just let me know.

Table :

Like i mentioned above i messed about with my set uo far too much, after sitting back and orginising things a lot more simply the team are playing much better football, the first two games, after the abysmal showing in the cup, we really kicked on and played some nice stuff. That last match against PSV was really interesting, i actually felt like a manager an could see the changes i was making in game have a real effect, so much so we manged to pull a victoy out of the bag in the 91st minute with Ruben Ligeon hitting his 2nd of the game! Fantastic.

[JBC#1]

Put in a bit of thought to this season again and didn't holiday at all (my 13th) in an effort to try and at least get close to recapturing the Champions League. Restructured my tactic from a 2-2-2-2-2 that a deployed to make the best of all the attacking talent at the club, back to a structured4-5-1 which has served me well this season so far having lost 2 games in all competitions coming into March. PSG coming up in the first round of the knockouts.

[Hoarau]

Kolbeinn Sigthorsson has found himself in the bench because of the performances of young Hooesen, 4 games 4 goals added to his general play has seen Danny staking a claim to be our first choice frontman right out the blocks.

[Chef Raekwon]

Thanks for the great update, Hoarau!

Good to see you are reshaping the club top to bottom, though it isn't something I would find myself doing! I never really liked Sigthorsson as well, I favour de Jong, and potentially Hoesen. I also have some ace newgens coming through, who might be able to challenge them within two seasons.

Regarding your formation: I would say it is a bit unusual fpr an Ajax-side, because you lack footballing power in some key positions, such as the defensive midfield position, all defenders and even your center halves. I would suggest a DLP + AP + DM/HB combo in midfield, with at least one BPD in defense. You attracted quite some new players, which really isn't my style, but hopefully they will show up for you big time.

I decided to post my updates every half season. I have just started a new save with Ajax, and right now, I'm in december. My results are really lacklustre (especially if I compare my results with results I've had with earlier Ajax games in FM14), but I do find my players coming along nicely. Lots of tutoring and I'm seeing good growth in my key players. My first two-three seasons will about about reshaping my squad: I'm looking to get as many good personalities in as possible.

[Hoarau]

Thanks for the great update, Hoarau!

Good to see you are reshaping the club top to bottom, though it isn't something I would find myself doing! I never really liked Sigthorsson as well, I favour de Jong, and potentially Hoesen. I also have some ace newgens coming through, who might be able to challenge them within two seasons.

Regarding your formation: I would say it is a bit unusual fpr an Ajax-side, because you lack footballing power in some key positions, such as the defensive midfield position, all defenders and even your center halves. I would suggest a DLP + AP + DM/HB combo in midfield, with at least one BPD in defense. You attracted quite some new players, which really isn't my style, but hopefully they will show up for you big time.

I decided to post my updates every half season. I have just started a new save with Ajax, and right now, I'm in december. My results are really lacklustre (especially if I compare my results with results I've had with earlier Ajax games in FM14), but I do find my players coming along nicely. Lots of tutoring and I'm seeing good growth in my key players. My first two-three seasons will about about reshaping my squad: I'm looking to get as many good personalities in as possible.

Thanks for the feedback Chef!

It's odd as my intention is not to rip the heart from the squad at all, I'm trying to keep as many players of the original squad together as possible while I've actually given a lot of game time to promoted youth players. The players brought in were intended to fill any potential gaps in my tactical set up, as you mentioned this specifically is areas like CB, DMC & MC. I've had a number of impressive performances from the new recruits, Thelander & Kusk in particular.

I really like Hoesen but aside from De Jong I do feel very light up top? How have you delt with this?

I passed deadline day last night and had to reject constant negotiated offers of £11.5m & £9.5m from Benfica & Monaco respectively for Blind & Van Rijhn. Lasse Schone has demanded to leave for a new challenge so it seems he may leave come January which is unfortunate.

Looking forward to your update Chef, particularly how you go about developing your players.

[Chef Raekwon]

Update 1:

So I played six months or so, reshaping the club top to bottom, except for the traditional Ajax philosophy and most first team players. I sacked many coaches and attracted many new ones. I let a platoon of youth players go out on loan (most often at affiliates Volendam and Almere City) and I still have too many (youth) players at my club. It doesn’t help that I’m offering new contracts to almost all players. I hope to make a pretty penny eventually, after these players have come back from their respective loans. With my help, Almere City is seriously challenging for the Jupiler League crown, which is also fun to see.

My main objective for the first season is to get everybody tutored right away. This means I have done some work attracting good tutors to make sure my young players get the best education possible. I have signed players such as Litmanen, Nesta and Capuano, just to spur on development. I have to say, so far, it is working really well. I’m still gutted about the tutoring bug, but we’ll see how that affects us in just a few seasons. At any rate, the pairs are as follows:

Kenneth Vermeer – Mickey van der Hart

Daley Blind – Joël Veltman

Niklas Moisander – Ricardo van Rhijn

Siem de Jong – Lerin Duarte

Christian Poulsen – Lucas Andersen

Thulani Serero – Ruben Ligeon

Kolbeinn Sigthorsson – Danny Hoesen

Lasse Schöne – Dejan Meleg

Allesandro Nesta – Stefano Denswil

Jari Litmanen – Abdelhak Nouri

Ciro Capuano – Kenny Tete

I will post screenshots at the end of the season, but let me tell you, some developments have been spectacular, most notably van der Hart, Veltman, van Rhijn and Duarte. I figured I would get the oldest players tutored first to breed better tutors. This plan seems to be working. I am still on the lookout for more suitable tutors: I have Seedorf in mind, Dario Conca, Eduardo and a host of other players, if I can get them on low enough wages.

My first team results have been less than spectacular. I was kicked out the domestic cup. Kicked out of the CL (group: Barcelona, Olympique Lyon and Celtic, finished third) and I’m only leading the Eredivisie by one point. I do think I have everything under control, as the most recent results have been encouraging.

After Siem de Jong got injured, Sigthorsson has eventually turned up in a major way, scoring almost every game and with a few hattricks under his belt, I don’t even think about replacing him again. This does leave me in a hard spot, as I now have four good central midfielders at my disposal: de Jong, Duarte, Schöne and Serero. After some deliberation I’m going with Duarte as my DLP and de Jong as my AP, with Schöne and Serero as cover.

Defensively, I feel like I have found my starting four. Van Rhijn has the nod over Ligeon, who is a strong backup, Veltman over van der Hoorn, Moisander over Denswil and Boilesen as my starting left back. I have moved Blind to the defensive midfield position, where he is performing well enough. My right and left inside forwards are currently Fischer and Bojan, but since Bojan is out injured for 5-6 months, I’m thinking about Schöne or Andersen as his replacement.

My Reserves are doing horribly; my U19 team is doing fine, but most importantly, my young players are developing well. I’m seeing some great progression. I don’t think any of my youth players are ready to take over in the 2014-2015 season, but perhaps the year after that, some of the talent will slowly start to trickle to the first team. Right now, I’m thinking about players such as Bazoer and Nouri, as well as signing Zivkovic.

As far as signings go, aside from the tutors, I have mainly signed Dutch youngsters: in particular some great newgens.

I signed Richario Zivkovic from FC Groningen for675k, Stanislav Lobotka from AS Trencin for 500k and a host of newgens, most from the Netherlands, one from Portugal (scout mentioned him in staff meeting) and one ace Spaninsh newgen (agent offered him), can’t believe my luck! So far, I have spent 7,18M on transfers. I only sold one player: Eyong Enoh moved for 5M to Hull.

Right now, my formation is as follows:

Sweeper Keeper; Support: Kenneth Vermeer

Complete Forward; Attack: Ricardo van Rhijn

Ball Playing Defender; Stopper: Joël Veltman

Ball Playing Defender; Cover: Niklas Moisander

Complete Forward; Attack: Nicolai Boilesen

Half Back; Defend: Daley Blind

Attacking Playmaker; Attack: Siem de Jong

Deep Lying Playmaker; Support: Lerin Duarte

Inside Forward; Attack: Bojan

Inside Forward; Attack: Viktor Fischer

Complete Forward; Support: Kolbeinn Sigthorsson

[roberto201]

Nice update Chef, like the amount of tutoring you are doing. I also bought Litmanen but he doesn't like Nouri which is gutting!

I have played up to christmas as well and am in a similar position to you. Leading league by 1 point. Got knocked out of CL finishing third (group: Man u, PSG and Kopenhagen).

Have taken your advice on board so playing similar to you, only difference being I do not use ball playing defenders. How is your away form? Mine has been poor, I'm going to design an away tactic in the winter break. Maybe try playing standard and balanced as opposed to very fluid and control.

Tried a few youngsters in the first team. Danny Hoesen and Lucas Andersen are playing well, as well as van den Boomen and Krishna. What do you make of Klaassen? He has played IRL recently I think. You keeping hold of him?

[horseman_Plague]

Goodmorning !

I've booted up my new game yesterday and I noticed something different to the last time I was browsing through teams when the game first came out. In my under 19s there are 2 players with 3 star potential the rest is higher with 5-6 4,5 star players. Pretty similar situation in the 2nd squad. Suddenly Hoessen is a top talent.. Needless to say the same thing is happening in my first team 5-6 players with 4,5 star potential where first it was just Fischer and Bojan.

Now either I am really lucky with the potential ability, SI has made a change or Spijkerman is a complete idiot ( his stats did not change )..

How are your players rated and who is performing the best?

[Hoarau]

Hoesen is my main man, currently 8 goals in 10 games. Really happy with his input so far, the other stand out player who I promoted is Van Den Booman, this boy is a beast and has actually chipped in with a handful of goals already.. Really enjoying my Ajax save this year, all this after worrying how to replace Eriksen.

[Chef Raekwon]

Well, as I am one of the Ajax researchers, I can get real in-depth about this. In general, I'd say you have nothing to worry about. Sure, I have gone through great length to make sure the biggest talents from the '95, '96 and '97 generations are included, but most potentials have been maintained as compared to previous editions, or even slightly toned down. You could have been real lucky, because all youth players in the U19 setup, most players in the Reserves setup and some players in the first team setup have negative potentials, which means these players can vary from backup Eredivisie player to good Eredivisie player, decent Eredivise player to top Eredivise player and European top player to world beater. You could have been lucky, but be advised that star ratings in itself can be off. Spijkerman, in this case, just might be wrong, and star ratings are dynamic: they are adjusted over time based on player development, based on players at the club and the club's division.

In short: You do have some excellent (young) players at the club, with excellent potential, but some reservations on this subject are in order.