Did Head Coach Francesco Farioli Just Leave Ajax After a Historic Title Collapse?
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Synopsis
In an unexpected turn of events, Ajax's head coach, Francesco Farioli, has decided to leave the club after a season filled with highs and lows. Once leading the Eredivisie, Ajax's dreams were dashed, culminating in Farioli's emotional farewell. Discover the details behind this shocking departure and what it means for the club's future.
Key Takeaways
- Francesco Farioli has officially left Ajax following a disappointing season.
- Ajax squandered a nine-point lead, finishing second in the Eredivisie.
- Farioli expressed pride in being Ajax's first non-Dutch and first Italian head coach.
- Assistant coaches are also departing alongside Farioli.
- Tensions between Farioli and the board contributed to his decision to leave.
Amsterdam, May 19 (NationPress) Ajax has officially announced that head coach Francesco Farioli has communicated to the club's board his decision to part ways following a disappointing finish to the season, where they ended up second in the Eredivisie, the premier football league in the Netherlands.
Ajax appeared to be on track for their 37th Eredivisie title, but a shocking turn of events led them to squander a nine-point lead with just five matches remaining, allowing PSV Eindhoven to clinch the championship.
"My journey at Ajax began almost a year ago at De Toekomst, with the intention of restoring Ajax to its rightful place. It concluded at the Johan Cruijff Arena, where we successfully returned Ajax to the Champions League, the pinnacle of European football. Our goal was to inject new energy into the entire Ajax community, fostering a positive approach across all levels of the club," Farioli stated.
"Being Ajax's first non-Dutch coach since 1998 and its inaugural Italian coach has been a tremendous honor: my staff and I took on this significant challenge with respect, responsibility, passion, and a determination to succeed. The support and respect from Ajax fans throughout the season have meant a lot to my team and me. Together, we experienced remarkable and unforgettable moments: an intense and emotional season filled with shared belief, fighting spirit, and pride, ultimately achieving our mission," Farioli expressed in a club statement.
Farioli joined Ajax from OGC Nice last year, signing a contract that was supposed to last until June 2027. Alongside Farioli, assistant coaches Daniele Cavalletto and Felipe Sanchez Mateos, as well as goalkeeping coach Jarkko Tuomisto, will also leave the technical staff.
Despite Ajax winning their final match of the season in front of their loyal fans at the Johan Cruijff Arena, Farioli was visibly emotional and in tears after the final whistle, hinting at his imminent departure. He expressed that, ‘The future of Ajax is what truly matters’.
Reports suggest that the decision to leave stemmed from growing tensions between him and the club's board, with both sides unable to agree on the club's direction.
Point of View
Farioli's departure marks a significant chapter in Ajax's storied history. The club's current struggles highlight the complexities of managing expectations and performance in top-flight football. As tensions between coaching staff and boardroom escalate, the ramifications of this split will resonate throughout the club and its passionate fanbase.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Francesco Farioli leave Ajax?
Francesco Farioli left Ajax due to rising tensions with the club's board and a disappointing end to the season, which saw the team finish second in the Eredivisie despite previously holding a substantial lead.
What were Farioli's achievements at Ajax?
During his tenure, Farioli successfully returned Ajax to the Champions League and introduced new energy and strategies within the club.
Who else is leaving Ajax alongside Farioli?
Assistant coaches Daniele Cavalletto and Felipe Sanchez Mateos, along with goalkeeping coach Jarkko Tuomisto, will also be departing from Ajax's technical staff.
What does Farioli say about his time at Ajax?
Farioli expressed his honor in being Ajax's first non-Dutch and first Italian coach, emphasizing the respect and support from fans during an intense season.
What are the future implications for Ajax?
Farioli's departure raises questions about the club's direction and leadership, potentially impacting their performance in upcoming seasons.
