FM19: Ajax Amsterdam - Time to reap what has been sown

[Chef Raekwon]

Welcome...

...to the FM19 AFC Ajax thread!

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Stole this format and text from my FM15 post

Ajax & History

Wikipedia will be a lot more extensive if you're after a bit more history/detail, here is a little summary.

Amsterdamsche Football Club Ajax, also AFC Ajax or Ajax Amsterdam, is a Dutch professional football club based in Amsterdam. Historically, Ajax (named after the legendary Greek hero) is the most successful club in the Netherlands, with 33 Eredivisie titles and 18 KNVB Cups. Along with PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord, it is one of the country's "big three" clubs who have dominated Dutch football (and who are the only three clubs that have never been relegated from the top division.

Ajax is historically one of the most successful clubs in the world; according to the IFFHS, Ajax were the seventh-most successful European club of the 20th century. The club is one of the five teams that has earned the right to keep the European Cup and to wear a multiple-winner badge; they won consecutively in 1971–1973. In 1972, they completed the continental treble by winning the Eredivisie, KNVB Cup, and the European Cup. Ajax's last international trophies were the 1995 Intercontinental Cup and the 1995 Champions League, where they defeated Milan in the final; they lost the 1996 Champions League final on penalties to Juventus.

Ajax is also one of three teams to win the continental treble and the Intercontinental Cup in the same season/calendar year; This was achieved in the 1971–72 season. Ajax, Juventus, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea are the four clubs to have won all three major UEFA club competitions. They have also won the Intercontinental Cup twice, the 1991–92 UEFA Cup, as well as the Karl Rappan Cup, a predecessor of the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 1962. Ajax plays at the Amsterdam Arena, which opened in 1996. They previously played at De Meer Stadion and the Amsterdam Olympic Stadium (for international matches).

Honours

National

Eredivisie: 33

‣ 1917–18, 1918–19, 1930–31, 1931–32, 1933–34, 1936–37, 1938–39, 1946–47, 1956–57, 1959–60, 1965–66, 1966–67, 1967–68, 1969–70, 1971–72, 1972–73, 1976–77, 1978–79, 1979–80, 1981–82, 1982–83, 1984–85, 1989–90, 1993–94, 1994–95, 1995–96, 1997–98, 2001–02, 2003–04, 2010–11, 2011–12, 2012–13, 2013–14

KNVB Cup: 18

‣ 1916–17, 1942–43, 1960–61, 1966–67, 1969–70, 1970–71, 1971–72, 1978–79, 1982–83, 1985–86, 1986–87, 1992–93, 1997–98, 1998–99, 2001–02, 2005–06, 2006–07, 2009–10

Johan Cruijff Shield: 8

‣ 1993, 1994, 1995, 2002, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2013

International

Intercontinental Cup: 2

‣ 1972, 1995

European Cup / Champions League: 4

‣ 1970-71, 1971-72, 1972-73, 1994-95

European Cup Winners' Cup: 1

‣ 1986-87

UEFA Cup: 1

‣ 1991-92

UEFA Super Cup: 2

‣ 1974, 1995

Rangers First Centenary 1872–1972: 1

‣ 1972

Karl Rappan Cup: 1

‣ 1962

Facilities

Amsterdam ArenA

In 1996, Ajax moved to a new home ground in the southeast of the city known as the Amsterdam ArenA This was built by the Amsterdam city authority at a cost of $134 million. The stadium is capable of holding approximately 52,000 people. The average attendance in 2006/07 was 48,610, rising in the next season to 49,128. The ArenA has a retractable roof and set a trend for other modern stadiums built in Europe in the following years. In the Netherlands, the ArenA has earned a reputation for a terrible grass pitch caused by the removable roof that, even when open, takes away too much sunlight and fresh air. During the 2008–2009 season groundstaff introduced an artificial lighting system that has finally reduced this problem considerably.

Sportpark De Toekomst

Sportpark De Toekomst is a stadium in Amsterdam, Netherlands. De Toekomst (Dutch for The Future), is a sporting complex comprising 9 fields located next to the Amsterdam Arena in the municipality of Ouder-Amstel. Sportpark De Toekomst seats 5,000 people, and is the location where the second string of Ajax Amsterdam play their matches Jong Ajax (Reserves) and Ajax Zaterdag (Amateurs), as well as all youth teams. Images of Jong Ajax and Ajax A1 at this site are regularly seen on Dutch television. The letters ajax, visible on the training sites main grandstand, were previously mounted on Ajax old grounds at De Meer Stadion.

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[Chef Raekwon]

Squad Analysis 

Goalkeepers

Short and easy: Onana’s your number one pick and it’s really quite uncontested. Onana can be your goalie for the coming years if you are able to fend off bigger clubs that might come around sniffing. There are some decently talented goalkeepers in your Jong Ajax and U19 sides, but it’s improbable they will become better than Onana. You might want to invest in an older goalie with the right personality as backup and to strengthen mentoring, as well as investing in a good young goalkeeper able to compete with Onana in a few years.

 

Defenders

Defensively, you’re pretty much set, except for depth at the left back position. Starting at right back, there’s a terrific amount of squad depth as Mazraoui, Kristensen and Orejuela are all in the same mold (attacking, technical backs) and are roughly equal in terms of current ability. Veltman is a more defensive full back able to play right back. You have an ace central defender in Matthijs de Ligt, two promising youngsters in Wöber and Schuurs, Veltman as a more seasoned option and potentially Blind as a ball playing left central defender, which is probably enough depth. Tagliafico is your first choice left back, but behind him, there’s kind of a big hole. You are able to play Blind and Wöber at left back, but both are more comfortable in the center. Mitchel Bakker is your highest rated pure left back after Tagliafico, but isn’t good enough for a spot in the first team. It might be worth to look for a decent stand-in for Tagliafico.

 

Midfield

In midfield you have a host of great options, and probably too many first choices. De Jong, van de Beek, Ziyech, Schöne, Eiting, Sinkgraven and Blind are all perfectly viable options for either a defensive midfield or central midfield position. Gravenberch is a very talented youngster who could also benefit from game time. Siem de Jong, Ekkelenkamp and Lang are also options, but probably more so for next season. You have enough squad depth and it’s probably worth it to either let a few players go, or go out on loan. I’d suggest Sinkgraven, Siem de Jong and potentially Lang away on loan, but obviously you can do whatever you like.

 

Attack

Although hindered by a few injuries at the start of the game (Bandé and Dolberg), you have some quality options available at the start of the game. Tadic, Labyad and Neres all represent quality on the flanks and with Bandé, Cerny, Johnsen and Nunnely you have some good talents coming through. Dolberg and Huntelaar are two good options up front, and Sierhuis is a decent prospect to develop. As such, there is no real need to invest in good attackers for your first team.

Edited November 6, 2018 by Chef Raekwon

[Chef Raekwon]

André Onana

Onana joined Ajax in 2015 from Barcelona and after two years in the Dutch Eerste Divisie playing for Jong Ajax, he became Ajax no. 1 goalie after the departure of Jasper Cillessen to Barcelona. In his first full season as the first choice goalie, Ajax challenged for the Europa League title and Onana was part of the eleven men on the pitch during the final. In 2018, Onana is one of the first names on the team sheet for Ajax and there has been some talk about a transfer to a bigger club within the next 12 months.

 

In FM19, Onana is undoubtedly your first choice goalkeeper. With his 22 years, he could prove to be an important fixture of your team for years to come, provided you can tie him down for more seasons. His current contract finishes in 2021 but he could well leave earlier if some bigger clubs come snooping around.

 

Kostas Lamprou

Kostas Lamprou, a 26 year old Dutch-Greek goalkeeper, joined Ajax in 2017 after stints at, most notably, Feyenoord and Willem II. Lamprou was a part of the Ajax youth academy before moving to Feyenoord. Making 14 appearances for Feyenoord between 2009 and 2015, he was never able to hold onto Feyenoords number one jersey. He was a first team starter at Willem II before moving to Ajax on a free. He mainly functions as the backup for Onana and as such is relegated to limited playing time.

 

In the game, Lamprou is a decent backup player but will never become good enough to warrant a permanent place in your first team. You can retain him until you find a better goalie for the role, such as a possible promising young goalkeeper able to challenge for Onana’s spot in a few years. Lamprou is contracted until the end of the 18/19 season but won’t sign a new contract.

 

Dominik Kotarski

Kotarski is a young Croatian goalkeeper who joined Ajax in the January window of 2018 from Dinamo Zagreb. He never featured in a first team game before his arrival at Amsterdam, and made his professional debut in march for the Jong Ajax outfit. In the 2018/2019 season, Kotarski is the current first goalkeeper for Jong Ajax and could well challenge for a first team spot in the next few years.

 

In FM19, with his 18 years, Kotarski is one for the future. He has decent potential and could well feature in your long term plans for the club, but chances are you will find a better prospect. You do not have to worry about his contract situation, as he fairly recently signed a new contract which ties him down until 2023. His personality doesn’t actively help young goalkeepers so it could be an option to move him early and bring in a better mentor for your young players.

 

Benjamin van Leer

Benjamin van Leer joined Ajax in 2017, for a reported 700k from Roda JC. Van Leer is a product of the PSV academy and after a few good seasons at Roda JC, he was bought as the backup goalkeeper for André Onana. Van Leer and Lamprou are in competition for the bench, a competition won by Lamprou which caused van Leer to seek a loan away from Ajax. As such, he’s playing the current season for NAC, who found themselves in need of a goalkeeper after Manchester City recalled Muric after just one game.

 

In FM19, van Leer is a decent Eredivisie goalie with little room to improve. As mentioned, he’s on a season long loan at Roda JC. He’s contracted until 2021, so there’s still some value to be had by selling him off at the end of the season. He has a balanced personality and as such is not really worth retaining for your squad.

 

Noussair Mazraoui

Noussair Mazraoui’s career is far from typical. Mazraoui joined the Ajax Academy as a young lad at age 9 in a generation that featured players such as Donny van de Beek, Abdelhak Nouri, Vaclav Cerny and Frenkie de Jong. He never was the first or the fifth player you’d pick if you were asked who’d one day feature for Ajax 1. After his time in the U19’s, he was given the option to remain at Ajax as an amateur player for Jong Ajax, even though his contemporaries were all handed out contracts. Mazraoui played well in his 55 games for Jong Ajax, featuring in different positions, ranging from midfield to defense. Current manager Erik ten Hag gave him a chance in the 17/18 season and ever since he has featured in the first team, going as far as becoming the first choice right back in the current season as well as being called up for the Moroccan team. His contract situation has also been resolved, with Ajax tying Mazraoui down until 2021.

 

In FM19, Mazraoui is one among two good options for right (wing) back. Mazraoui is a fairly versatile player, who can be played as a right (wing) back, defensive or central midfielder. His skillset is fairly technical and offensive, which allows him to do a job for you in preferably attacking roles and as such, you can easily retrain him to another position should the need arise. Provided you can develop Mazraoui further, he could well become an excellent first team player for your squad.

 

Rasmus Nissen Kristensen

Kristensen joined Ajax in the January window of 2018, for a fee of 5,5M euros from Midtjylland. This Danish U21 international plays as a right back although he hasn’t had too many opportunities to show his worth. Even though it’s still early days, it looks like Kristensen has been relegated to the role of being back-up player behind Noussair Mazraoui.

 

In FM19, Kristensen is a very good option for your right back position. His physicals support him getting up and down the pitch a lot, and his technical capabilities make him an offensive threat as well as a solid defensive back. With his 20 years, there’s still some potential left unlocked which can make playing Kristensen an interesting and attractive choice.

 

Luis Orejuela

The Colombian right back Luis Orejuela joined Ajax one year ago, for a reported 3,7M from Colombian outfit Deportivo Cali. Only featuring in one Eredivisie game in 2017/2018, Orejuela has played most of his games for Jong Ajax. Orejuela faced fierce competition from Joël Veltman in 2017/2018, and with the arrival of Kristensen and the development of Mazraoui from 2018 onwards, Orejuela is probably looking for a move away from Amsterdam in the next transfer window.

 

In FM19 Orejuela is just a decent back-up option with some potential left to be unlocked. He is a decent offensive option for your right back position, but Kristensen and Mazraoui will probably edge him out of your first team. As you probably do not need three right backs, it may be for the better to move Orejuela to a new club as quickly as possible.

 

Joël Veltman

Joël Veltman is a true Ajax lad, joining the club at age 9 until today. Having faced multiple severe injuries, it was not unlikely to have seen his career peter out before he had played a single professional game. Based on a few strong performances in the European Youth Champion League, he was offered a shot at the first team and he took it, playing well enough to earn himself 19 caps for the Netherlands to date. Veltman has played primarily as a central defender, although he was used as a right back for most of the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 campaigns. Having faced severe criticism about his style of play, he became the captain in 2017 but after a few weak performances, yet another heavy injury and the rise of Matthijs de Ligt in 2018, the armband was taken away from him yet again.

 

In FM19, Veltman is one of your better central defensive options. Not the strong, long powerhouse often seen in central defenders, Veltman is more of a positionally aware defender, able to anticipate problems before they arise and act upon it. Veltman is a decent offensive threat, but absolutely at his best with relatively simple passing instructions. Veltman faces severe competition for a spot in the first team, with Matthijs de Ligt being one of the first names on the team sheet and Daley Blind another very strong candidate as his partner. You could absolutely play Veltman as a starter, or could provide quality depth for your squad. He has a very good personality for mentoring, which makes him a desirable figure off the pitch. Veltman is injured at the start of the game, and will be available in 2019.

 

Matthijs de Ligt

What can be said about Matthijs de Ligt which hasn’t already been said better by others? Probably on the biggest talents in current football and perhaps the biggest defensive talent in the world. Hailing from the famous Ajax Academy which he joined at age 9, Matthijs de Ligt broke into the first time at age 17, being a starter in the Europa League final in 2017 and winning his first cap at age 17 after playing only 5 first team games for Ajax. Since then, his rise has been nothing short of meteoric, becoming captain of the first team towards the end of the 2017/2018 season and continuing his strong performances in the current season. De Ligt is a name scouts around the world are more than familiar with. It’s not a matter of asking the question if he’ll leave the club, but when and if he’ll be able to break the record fee for a defender.

 

In FM19, Matthijs de Ligt is as good as it gets. A true, blue wonderkid at age 18, with impressive physicals, great technical skills and amazing mental capabilities all wrapped into one phenomenal defender. He has a good personality (Resolute), which allows him to develop into a world class defender all on his own. De Ligt will no doubt feature in your first team plans right from the start. He’s currently on a contract until 2021, for how long can you keep him in Amsterdam?

 

Max Wöber

Austrian center back Max Wöber joined Ajax last season for a cool 7,5M from Rapid Vienna. This left footed central defender played 22 games for the first team in his debut season and playing decently well. The rise of Matthijs de Ligt and the transfer of Daley Blind has no doubt made things harder for Wöber, but a few good games here and there show Ten Hag is still considering him as a player.

 

Wöber in FM19 is a decent option for your defense. He’s a good starter for Eredivisie games, but will probably be on the light side for European football. As one of two left footed defenders, he’s a good partner for De Ligt or Veltman, but faces competition from Daley Blind. Wöber is still relatively young (20) and has good potential, so it could absolutely be worth trying to develop him further. With his Model Citizen personality, he’s the ideal candidate for mentorship.

 

Perr Schuurs

Perr Schuurs joined Ajax this summer from Fortuna Sittard for around 2M euro’s. Schuurs shows certain similarities to De Ligt, such as being born in the same year, playing the same position and also being captain of his team from a young age. Schuurs was definitely bought with the future in mind, as he’s only 18 years old and has been touted a possible replacement for De Ligt in time. Schuurs is currently playing most of his games for Jong Ajax, but will get some game time for the first team later in the season.

 

In FM19, Schuurs is a decent backup for your first team, but not yet good enough to challenge for a first team spot full time. He has enough potential left to develop, which makes him one to keep an eye on. You could easily start him in cup games or give him some playing time off the bench, which he will no doubt enjoy. If you are able to successfully develop Schuurs, he might become a possible future Ajax star.

 

Nicolas Tagliafico

Our Argentine powerhouse Nicolas Tagliafico has made an instant impact upon joining Ajax from Independiente in January 2018. His performances have allowed him to be called up for national team duty and he featured for Argentina in the 2018 World Cup. He was even able to captain Argentina in a friendly post World Cup, which shows the level of trust placed in him, as well as his ability to lead a team. Tagliafico is always one of the first names on the team sheet and a leading player on the pitch. Ajax fans are happy with him, and rightly so. Long may his reign last!

 

In FM19, Tagliafico is your undisputed first choice left back. You can play him offensively, but his defensive game is where he truly shines. His personality (Professional) makes him an ideal role model for younger players. Tagliafico is only 25 years old and his contract runs out in 2022, which ensures you have a good to great left back for quite a long time.

Edited November 6, 2018 by Chef Raekwon

[Chef Raekwon]

Daley Blind

Daley’s come home! After playing 4 seasons for Manchester United and featuring in over 100 games for them, Daley Blind rejoined Ajax for a record fee of potentially 18-20M euro’s. Daley is far from a stranger to Ajax, having his Eredivisie debut in the 2008/2009 campaign and playing multiple full seasons for the club before moving to Manchester in 2014. Daley is also a current Dutch international, having featured in over 50 Dutch national team games. Daley is one of the most versatile players around, being able to play almost anywhere defensively, but preferably either as a central defender or defensive midfielder.

 

In FM19, Blind is one of your best players and a probable first team starter. You can either opt to play him as a central defender or as a defensive midfielder, depending on where you need him most. Daley’s a very good ball playing defensive minded player, with great positional awareness offset by horrific speed. As such, I would not recommend playing Daley as a left back, although he could feature there as a backup to Tagliafico. As a central defender, Daley’s a very good partner to de Ligt and provided the team with football from the defensive line. However, he might shine the most when featured as a defensive midfielder, being able to set up plays from deep and linking the defensive to the offense. Besides being an awesome player, Daley’s also a very good mentor, with his Model Citizen personality. Daley’s ‘only’ 29 years old and thus can feature for various seasons before become redundant.

 

Lasse Schöne

Lasse Schöne is well on his way to become a modern day Mister Ajax. Joining Ajax from N.E.C. in 2012 on a free, expectations were low. However, in every season so far, Schöne has featured in most games of the season, and more often than not as a first team player. Schöne has transitioned from an attacking minded midfielder, who could play in the center of the park, but also on the right flank and even as a striker, to a more holding role as a defensive minded player. Currently at the ripe old age of 32, Schöne is only now showing signs of slowing down, being rested for some occasions but still able to perform when called upon. The Dane has played over 40 games for his national team and still regularly features for them.

 

In FM19, Schöne is notable for his set piece ability, his versatility and his personality. He’s still a good player and can absolutely start in any circumstance, but his primary strengths are his ability to score free kicks, his versatility and his ability to mentor young players with his amazing Model Citizen personality. He is not the quickest player on the pitch anymore, not by a long shot, but if you are able to control the game, Schöne is still a very good option as a passing outlet for your attacking players and to recycle possession. Although he’s aging and his contract finishes in 2019, I’d recommend offering him a new one. Don’t throw away your Model Citizens easily!

 

Carel Eiting

Carel Eiting is an Ajax lad, joining the Ajax Academy at age 9 and playing for all youth teams in the process. Eiting had his Eredivisie debut in 2017/2018 and featured in close to 50 games for Jong Ajax before the start of the current season. Eiting is known for being a slow, but smart player who’s often able to play the ball forwards to the attacking third. Defensively solid, Eiting can play as a defensive minded midfielder or even as a central defender if you so desire. Ten Hag has opted to sometimes play Eiting instead of Donny van de Beek, which shows his confidence in him.

 

Eiting is a decent Ajax player at the start of FM19, being able to comfortably play in the Eredivisie and with the ability to develop into an undisputed first team player. Eiting is fairly close to being a starter and with a bit of development, he could become an ace deep lying playmaker for your outfit. Eiting is just 20 years old and his contract isn’t up for renewal until 2022, which gives you plenty time to figure out how to best develop this youngster.

 

Frenkie de Jong

Frenkie de Jong is quickly becoming a household name across Europe. De Jong was developed at Willem II, although only playing two senior games before he was bought by Ajax in 2015. At Ajax, he was part of a great Jong Ajax midfield, which housed the likes of Donny van de Beek and Abdelhak Nouri. De Jong had his breakout season in 2017/2018, although he did already feature for a few minutes in the Europa League final in 2017. Frenkie de Jong continued his rise in Dutch football in 2018/2019, having been called up for the Dutch national team and having instant impact. His dribbling, vision and passing are universally being praised by Dutch pundits and he has been linked to most notably Barcelona over the summer. With the vast majority of his career ahead of him, his future is looking sunny indeed.

 

In FM19, Frenkie de Jong is an amazing young player. Technically gifted with strong attacking mentals to support him, De Jong can set your team up with some sensational performances. De Jong is a very versatile player, being able to play in pretty much all central positions. De Jong is best in the transition from defensive to offensive play, being able to quickly move a ball forward and setting up attackers. De Jong is probably best as an advanced playmaker in central midfield, but can perform in all ball playing roles up to libero as a central defender. At the start of the game, De Jong is already worthy of the first team, but can become a much better player because his potential is absolutely immense.

 

Hakim Ziyech

Ziyech is the true artist at Ajax. Ziyech joined Ajax from the now relegated FC Twente in 2016 for a fee of around 11M euro’s. Hakim is a very divisive figure for Ajax: none doubt his ability to play football, but some hate his off-the-pitch antics and on-the-pitch aloofness. The Moroccan international is one of the current central figures at Ajax, with the current team almost being built around him. A transfer was on the cards in the past summer transfer window, but the right club wasn’t interested, so with a strongly improved contract still running until 2021, Ziyech is at your service.

 

In FM19, Ziyech is your star player. Amazing technical ability, good to great mentals and very acceptable physical attributes make Ziyech probably your best player. He’s also decently versatile: you can play him almost anywhere up front, although he performs best as either an AMC or MC. Ziyech is your current start, but not necessarily the best role model for your young players, so perhaps be mindful of heavy mentoring duties for him.

 

Donny van de Beek

Fans of Dutch football are probably familiar with Donny van de Beek, after all, he’s featured for Jong Ajax since 2014/2015. Since then, van de Beek has become one of the better players at Ajax and the spiritual successor of Davy Klaassen. Van de Beek joined Ajax at the young age of 9 and had a brilliant partnership in midfield with Abdelhak Nouri. Van de Beek is known as a tenacious box-to-box midfielder with above average technical capabilities and a real drive to score. His performances have warranted numerous callups to the Dutch national team, winning a few caps in the process. In the current 2018/2019 season, van de Beek has lost his previously certain first team starter spot because of an overcrowded midfield positively overflowing with talent. It is uncertain if van de Beek will remain an Ajax player for much longer, possibly looking forward to move away from Ajax to a club where he has guaranteed game time.

 

Donny van de Beek is a good player in FM19, one you can no doubt field without any issues, even in Europe. Donny can play in all three central midfield positions, making him decently versatile. In FM19, van de Beek is more of a deep lying central midfielder, for which he faces fierce competition with other players. Van de Beek has a good personality (Resolute), which allows him to develop further and should also mean he keeps his head down and works hard to become or remain a first team starter. Van de Beek is tied down until 2022, giving you ample time to mold him to your preference.

 

Daley Sinkgraven

Daley (2) joined Ajax in 2014 from Heerenveen. Ajax paid around 7M for the central midfielder, who seemed to be set for great success at his new club. Young, technical and attacking-minded, Sinkgraven and Ajax seemed like a match made in heaven. Reality appeared to be different, with Sinkgraven playing (a lot) less than 50% of all Eredivisie games since then. Injuries have hindered his development, as well as his inability to truly challenge for a first team spot in his beloved midfield. Over the years, Sinkgraven has also featured as a backup left back, providing the team with attacking impulses from the left flank. It will come as no surprise Sinkgraven is very vulnerable defensively, which, combined with his injury record, prompted Ajax to invest in Nicolas Tagliafico.

 

In FM19, Sinkgraven is by no means a bad player, who, in spite of his age (23 at the start of the game), still has some potential left unlocked. Sinkgraven can absolutely start as a central midfielder, but probably won’t because of the abundance of talent available to you. Another complicating fact is that Sinkgraven is out injured until early 2019. Sinkgraven can also do a job as a stand-in for Tagliafico, but his defensive vulnerabilities are very real, and as such you should caution to use him there. His contract is set to expire in 2019 and combined with the fierce competition for a midfield spot, it might not be a bad idea to sell him off while you can still get a transfer fee for the lad. This will probably not be the (comparatively) worst player you’ve ever sold!

 

Ryan Gravenberch

Ryan is as young as they come, but also as talented. With his 16 years, in the running season, he has both become the youngest player to ever play in Ajax 1, but also the youngest goal scorer. Not bad, considering his predecessor was the legendary Clarence Seedorf. Gravenberch starts the 2018/2019 season with a Dutch U19 tournament win in his pocket. The youngster has quickly made a good impression on Ten Hag, which means he will probably get some more game time later on in the season. Absolutely one to watch for the future.

 

In FM19, Gravenberch might actually be the best 16-year-old in the game, although I’m haven’t checked for certain due to the editor not being out yet. Gravenberch can play most positions in midfield, although his strengths are attack-minded. Gravenberch is a decent player for the Jong Ajax team, but won’t be completely out of place in the first team either. You can easily sub him in in games already won, or play him in low stakes cup football. He has amazing potential and it’s probably worth it to carefully groom him to become a top central midfield for your outfit. Be sure to offer him a contract as soon as you can!

 

Siem de Jong

Although 2018 Siem de Jong probably is not good enough for the current Ajax midfield, 2010 Siem de Jong is somewhat of a hero to Ajax supporters, due to his goals which ensured the first of four successive Eredivisie wins. De Jong (2) was instrumental in those seasons, captaining the side and scoring important goals both in the Eredivisie as well as the Champions League. Although he was never universally beloved by Ajax fans (his play style was somewhat atypical for Ajax), he got his desired move abroad when he joined Newcastle in 2014. His stay was marred with various injuries from which he never seemed to fully recover. After a loan stint at PSV, he rejoined Ajx last season and got some games here and there, but he never really challenged for a first team starter spot. He lost his spot in the first team definitively at the start of the current season, which prompted him to seek a loan move away from Ajax. He currently plays his football in the sunny Sydney, for the local FC. He’s still contracted until 2020, but it’s unlikely he will feature more when he returns.

 

Siem de Jong can be a first team player for your side, but that would mean your side either has injury problems or all your players have been bought, which does not bode well for your save game. Siem plays as a positionally aware AMC, best used as either a second striker or advanced playmaker. After his loan, it’s probably best to arrange a transfer for him, as he probably won’t be playing for you. As a mentor, de Jong doesn’t have much to offer. He has a balanced personality, which doesn’t set him apart from a, say, Schöne. At 29 years of age, he does represent some transfer value, which you can hopefully cash on in for.

 

Jurgen Ekkelenkamp

Ekkelenkamp is a decently talented midfielder hailing from the Ajax Academy. Joining Ajax at age 13, he went to the more senior youth teams with relative ease, transforming from a defensive minded player into an attacking force. Ekkelenkamp is known for scoring tons of goals for the U19 side, for which he still sometimes plays games. However, Ekkelenkamp is more often found in Jong Ajax, where he plays the majority of his games. Ekkelenkamp became the first Ajax player to be born in the 21^st century when he debuted on April 19, 2018 against VVV Venlo.

 

In FM19, Ekkelenkamp already is a lethal shadow striker at the youth level. He isn’t particularly pacy, but with his off the ball movement, first touches and his finishing ability, he will always score goals for you. Besides his ability to play as an AMC, he can also as either a CM or DM. As long as he doesn’t have to rely on pace, Ekkelenkamp can develop into a good Ajax first team player. Although he’s still somewhat off becoming a first team staple, he can easily play for Jong Ajax and his potential ensures him to challenge for a spot in the not too distant future.

 

Noa Lang

Noa Lang is an interesting player for Ajax, especially because of his past as he joined the Ajax Academy from Feyenoord at age 14. Lang can play almost anywhere up front, but is most comfortable as a central midfielder. Lang has made his debut in Ajax 1 and is one to look out for.

 

In FM19, Lang is a decent youngster with the potential to become a first team player. His game is very uneven, but there’s something to work with. Lang would benefit from good mentoring, as it could spur his development which is needed to break into the first team.

Edited November 6, 2018 by Chef Raekwon

[Chef Raekwon]

David Neres

The Brazilian winger David Neres joined Ajax in the January window of 2017 for a reported 15M, making him one of the most expensive players of there Eredivisie ever. His arrival was met with skepticism: he had only played 9 professional games in Brazil, could he warrant the 15M? Didn’t Ajax overpay? After a somewhat shaky start, David Neres has become a fan favorite and is possibly somewhat close to the Brazilian national team, due to his many tantalizing performances for Ajax. Neres can play on both wings but is most comfortable on the right, where he can often outrun his direct opponent and either cross or pass the ball, or attempt a finish. Neres has already attracted interest from larger sides, but his reported 40M price tag has deterred any real interest from materializing.

 

In FM19, Neres is a very good inside forward. His lethal dribbling, combined with pace and his ability to confound his direct opponents through technique and flair set him apart from other good wingers in the Eredivisie. You can safely play Neres on the left and right, but as an inside forward on the right, he shines the most. With his 21 years, he’s still young enough to develop further, which probably means big teams will come snooping. His contract doesn’t expire until 2022, so you have plenty of time to enjoy his plays and develop him further, or ask an exorbitant transfer fee if you so desire.

 

Dusan Tadic

Tadic was the 2018/2019 marquee signing for Ajax, costing the club a reported 12M and wages of around 50k/ week. Tadic is no stranger to the Netherlands, having played for FC Groningen and FC Twente before his departure to the Premier League. At Southampton, he was one of the players to really make a difference, which explains the elation Ajax fans felt when it became clear he would join after the World Cup. Since the start of the season, Tadic has directly proven why he Ajax paid a lot of money, as he has been instrumental in the success of reaching the group stages of the Champions League, with goals and assists, as well as his drive both on and off the pitch.

 

In FM19, Tadic is one of your best players and it is up to you how you play him. As a versatile attacker, you can play him on either flank, as a striker or as an AMC. In real life, he often plays from the left flank or center, which might also be the position you can field him in. At age 29, it is unlikely Tadic will improve much as a player, but his personality (Spirited) means he can help other players improve. On the field, Tadic will probably be one of your most important players in the coming seasons.

 

Zakaria Labyad

Zakaria Labyad is a new signing at Ajax, joining from FC Utrecht in the summer transfer window for a reported 7M. Labyad is a left or central attacking midfielder but can also play on the right wing and multiple other midfield positions. He’s fairly technical and fairly well rounded and as such can be seen as an ideal utility player. Labyad is a product of the PSV academy, playing one full season in the first team before moving to Sporting in Portugal. After loan stints at Vitesse and Fulham, he joined Utrecht on a free transfer in 2017 and impressing all the while. At Ajax, Labyad faces severe competition for a spot in the starting lineup and has only played a few games in the running season.

 

In FM19, Labyad is a good first team option with some room to grow as a player. He’s hampered by the fact that there are various very good options available, often better than himself, for all positions in the team. Labyad is worth retaining, as he can be a very good option in case of injuries in your first team. As a new signing in Amsterdam, it’s probably going to be hard to ship him off right at the start of the game, although he does represent some value. His contract runs until 2022, so there’s no real need for a snapshot decision regarding his position in the team.

 

Hassane Bandé

Bandé was signed by Ajax from KV Mechelen in the winter transfer window, but joined the club in the summer. Ajax sees a lot of potential in the youngster, buying him for a total reported fee of around 8,5M euro’s. The 19-year old Bandé is a young attack minded player, best fielded as an inside forward on the left wing, although he can play as a striker or right attacking midfielder as well. After only a few friendlies, he broke his leg and is scheduled to return to the field at the start of 2019, so eager fans will have to wait a bit longer before seeing their new man in action. While injured, Bandé was named youngster of the season in Belgium.

 

Hassane Bandé starts the game injured, being sidelined for the next 6-7 months. It’s a shame, because his attributes make him an exciting youngster to keep an eye on. Blessed with great acceleration and pace, combined with good technical capabilities, make him a real force on the wings. At the start of the game, he’s probably not yet good enough for an outright first team starter position, but you can absolutely field him if you choose to do so. His potential is good, which means he will probably become a starter for your team if you are able to develop him. His game has a few weak spots, such as his mental aspects, but he is still young enough to be developed further. Make sure he gets some quality mentoring to get the most out of his development. His contract doesn’t run out until 2023, so you have plenty of time to get the most out of him.

 

Vaclav Cerny

Cerny is a familiar name to fans of Ajax. Joining the Ajax Academy at age 17, he joined an already very good generation of players such as van de Beek, Nouri and Mazraoui. Vaclav has been on the verge of a breakthrough for a few years now, sadly being hindered by a horrific injury last season, which caused him to be sidelined until September. Hopefully he can remain fit and regain his spot in the first team.

 

Although Cerny is not the youngest talent in your team, in FM19 at age 20 there is still a lot of room for improvement and there is a lot to work with. Cerny is one of the best dribblers in your team, and his attacking game has no real weaknesses, possessing good pace, technique and off the ball movement. Cerny can definitely do a job for your team, although probably not a first team starter. If you are able to develop him, he could become a good player for your squad. He has a contract until 2020 and it may be worth extending it early.

 

Kasper Dolberg

Danish Dynamite Dolberg was a European level revelation in the 2016/2017 season, being a starter for the team that became the runner-up in the Europa League tournament. Dolberg impressed with a lot of goals in both the Europa League and Eredivisie, which instantly attracted the attention of several big clubs. Last season, Dolberg suffered from many injuries and didn’t play much games, but he’s been back for a month now and shows signs of recovery. Dolberg joined Ajax in 2015 from Danish side Silkeborg IF, where he played 3 games before being sold to his current club for a reported 275k – an absolute steal. If Dolberg is able to find his 2016/2017 form, Ajax will have a real wonderkid on their hands.

 

In FM19, Dolberg is still injured at the start of the game and is expected to be out for another 7 weeks to 3 months. As such, he will definitely miss the pre-season friendlies and has to be carefully introduced to the team when he returns to fitness. As a player, Dolberg is everything he was in FM17 and FM18, presenting the manager with excellent physical, technical and mental attributes. Dolberg is a very well rounded striker that can best be deployed as an advanced forward or complete striker, but retraining him to another role (or position) is definitely possible. Dolberg can also play on the left wing as a deadly inside forward. The stoic Dane has a resilient personality which will help him grow as a player. Dolberg is already a very good striker and probably your first team choice once he’s fit, with a lot more potential for him to live up to. As his contract runs until 2021, there is no real need to extend it right away, but it might be something worth looking into.

 

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar

Veteran striker Huntelaar is currently enjoying the final days of his career at Ajax, after a great career which spanned the better part of two decennia. Huntelaar had a career trajectory reminiscent of Ruud van Nistelrooy: starting off at small time club De Graafschap, he played for AGOVV and Heerenveen before joining Ajax in 2016 for 9M euro’s and having an instant impact with his goals. After his first stint at Ajax, he was sold to Real Madrid for 27M euro’s, and played for AC Milan and Schalke ’04 before returning to Ajax in 2017. His trademark is simple: goals, and lots of ‘em. Even though Huntelaar is showing signs of slowing down, he still enjoyed a remarkably productive start of the current season in the absence of Dolberg, scoring many goals in the Eredivisie and Champions League qualifiers. It shows Huntelaar is still a force to be reckoned with in 2018.

 

In FM19, Huntelaar is showing signs of aging. His pace and acceleration were never good to begin with, but are now simply lackluster. Luckily Huntelaar still has his goal instinct, with excellent finishing, composure and off the ball movement. Huntelaar functions best as a poacher or target man, which may be hard to fit into your Ajax side. Make no mistake though: Huntelaar is still a very valuable striker and one of the best in the Eredivisie, and one of two very good options for your striker position and as such represents value for your team. Off the pitch, he can add to your team through is fairly professional personality, which makes him a decent choice for mentoring.

 

Kaj Sierhuis

Sierhuis is an up-and-coming striker from the Ajax Academy. He has made his debut in the current season but is still waiting for his first goal. Sierhuis is a player of the Huntelaar mold: a poacher or advanced forward always looking to score a goal. He’s been deadly for the Jong Ajax team, scoring 14 goals in 20 games during the 2017/2018 season and becoming Champions of the Eerste Divisie. At the start of the season, Sierhuis is 20 years old and has a contract running until 2019.

 

In FM19, Sierhuis is an okay striker with decent potential. He is pretty well rounded and has a specific few strong areas so developing him can be rewarding. Sierhuis could benefit from better dribbling to make him a better complete forward or false nine, although that might mean not playing into his current strengths. Another possible trajectory is to bet on his superior finishing, off the ball movement, heading and decent physicals to turn him into a goal scoring monster. Whatever you do decide, don’t forget to extend his contract!

 

Dennis Johnsen

Johnsen joined Ajax in 2017 from Heerenveen for around 2M. Johsen mainly found himself in Jong Ajax for the season, playing 27 games for them and winning the Eerste Divisie. Johnsen is a fairly promising inside forward on the left flank, although you can play or train him to play pretty much everywhere up front and expect him to perform. Johnsen has already played a few games for Ajax 1, but the stark competition is going to make it hard for him to break through. Johnsen is known to be a fairly inconsistent performer, sometimes playing amazingly and scoring beautiful games, while not turning up at other moments.

 

In FM19, Johnsen is one of your better talents, able to fit in the first team without many issues but probably not being one of the best options to start outright. His potential is good enough to warrant further development. He has some weak aspects to his game, such as his off the ball movement and mental game in general. At age 20, there is still time to develop, so no immediate need to worry. Johnsen has a contract until 2021.

 

Mateo Cassierra

Colombian striker Cassierra joined Ajax in 2016 for a reported 6M euro’s from Deportivo Cali but has never made a real impact for the first team. At Jong Ajax, he has been deadly, averaging over a goal every 2 games and helping the team win the Eerste Divisie in 2017. In the current season, he’s away on a year long loan to FC Groningen. Cassierra is not yet completely written off, but will have to impress this season in order to fight for a place in the first team upon his return.

 

Cassierra is spending the season away at FC Groningen, where he will attempt to break into the starting eleven. At age 21, Cassierra still has some room to improve in FM19, but it’s going to be hard if not impossible for him to beat Dolberg as your starting number 9. Although most accomplished as a striker, Cassierra can also feature as an AML. Cassierra has decent attributes, but his first touches, off the ball movement and passing don’t currently make him a reliable option for most Ajax sides. Cassierra can still be developed further, but ask yourself if it’s worth doing that. He’s contracted until 2021 and it can be worth moving him out of Amsterdam provided you can get the right fee for him.

 

Ché Nunnely

Che is a classic right winger, possessing amazing acceleration and pace but lacking somewhat in other departments of his game. Nunnely joined the Ajax Academy from FC Utrecht at age 10 and has performed well in the championship winning Jong Ajax of 2017/2018. Ché is still waiting for his debut, which might happen during the current campaign.

 

In FM19, Nunnely’s blistering speed is accurately depicted with his 18 acceleration and 14 pace, which are augmented by good technical abilities. His game does have some obvious weaknesses, mainly in the mental department, such as his inability to make correct decisions, his off the ball movement, composure and anticipation. He could also benefit from extended attention to his stamina, which at 7 is less than impressive. Ché’s 19 at the start of FM19 and currently represents an okay option for your first team, but could develop further as his potential is pretty good. Nunnely would benefit from mentoring, as his balanced personality doesn’t add to his development.

 

Nicolas Kühn

In a surprise move, Nicolas Kühn joined Ajax in the winter transfer window from RB Leipzig for around 2M euro’s. Kühn is a young attacker able to play in all three attacking positions, and do it well. Kühn is still waiting for his debut in the first team, but his performances in Jong Ajax and the U19’s have been promising, so it might be a matter of time before the young German will feature in the first team.

 

Kühn in FM19 is one to absolutely keep an eye on. You have to think long and hard where you want to play him: he starts as a natural left winger, but his abilities can make him a devastating false nine or right inside forward as well. His dribbling and technique make him a very technically gifted player, but it’s his flair that sets him apart from other youngsters. If you are able to focus his development to mitigate the weaknesses in his game (most notably stamina, strength and decisions), he might become a first choice player in the not-to-near future.

 

Brian Brobbey

Last but not least is Brian Brobbey, the 16 year old striker of Ajax U19. Brobbey is a remarkable player, being extremely strong and possessing excellent finishing at such a tender age. Throughout the youth ranks, Brobbey has benefited from his strength to easily brush aside defenders who are not as solidly built as he is, which has given him an almost unfair advantage from a young age. It’s unsure if he’s able to keep this competitive advantage while growing into a more complete player at the same time.

 

In FM19, Brobbey possesses amazing strength and finishing (respectively 14 and 15) for a 16 year old. Because he has good to great potential and he’s very young, you can mold him into a more all-round player. His current weaknesses are his pace, off the ball movement and other mental aspects of his game. There’s a lot to work with so there’s reason for some excitement there.

Edited November 6, 2018 by Chef Raekwon

[Chef Raekwon]

Transfer Targets

 

Viktor Fischer

Fischer is no stranger to Ajax, having played for the club until 2016. After a few failed spells at clubs (Middlesbrough and Mainz), he has become a force at his latest club, Copenhagen. At the start of the game, it is unlikely for you to buy him, as he just recently moved to Copenhagen. Fischer plays best as an inside forward on the left wing, with all round good attributes that make him an immediate first team option for your team, with excess potential left to be developed. At the start of the game, Fischer can be bought for around 5,5M, but as he’s unwilling to negotiate a contract, you might want to wait for the January transfer window to lure him away.

 

Antonio Marin

This Croatian attacker is one of FM19’s potential wonderkids. In the past, Ajax has sometimes bought Croatians, with young goalkeeper Kotarski being the last one brought in. Marin plays as an attacker, preferably on the left wing, for Dinamo Zagreb and can be bought for a relatively cheap price. I was able to get him for around 3M, although this may differ per save game. His attributes are somewhat reminiscent to David Neres: an excellent dribbler, pacey and with good flair. You can’t go wrong with this kid.

 

Cesar Montes

PSV appears to have a domestic monopoly on signing Mexican players (Moreno, Salcido, Guardado, Guitterez, Lozano and probably others) but for some reason did not sign Cesar Montes. Montes is a very good ball playing central defender playing for Monterrey. At age 20, he can absolutely start for your Ajax side and could prove to be either a good stand-in for De Ligt, or his successor. Montes is not a cheap option, his transfer fee could go up to around 10M euro’s, however, you can possibly get him cheaper than that.

 

Calvin Stengs

Stengs is a young winger playing for AZ. After a season marred with injury trouble, Stengs is almost injury free. At 19 years of age, he has good offensive attributes and very good potential. However, AZ will probably not part with him for free, and will demand a transfer fee up to 15M. If you are able to get him any cheaper, you are doing yourself a service. Stengs could well develop into an ace inside forward or winger, depending on the role you play him in.

 

Myron Boadu

Another AZ regular, Boadu is a very good striking option if you are able to lure him away. AZ will probably not let him go easily, demanding up to tens of millions for the player, although this could differ per save game. Boadu could develop into the best Dutch striker in FM19, so it’s normal to keep an eye on the lad.

 

Kik Pierie

Pierie had his debut for Heerenveen at an astonishing 16 years of age. In FM19, at age 17, Pierie is a first team player for the club in defense. You can probably play or train him as a left defender, but he’s most comfortable as a central defender. I’m not sure how much Heerenveen demands for their player, but I’m pretty sure it’s not going to be cheap.

Edited November 6, 2018 by Chef Raekwon

[Chef Raekwon]

Reserved #6.

[dothestrand]

I've done Ajax saves with a Dutch only squad by the end of the first season, but I was still able to comfortably win the Eredivisie. Ditto for Feyenoord and even for AZ Alkmaar. Never kicked on in Europe though. The Dutch league is normally my second save though, so I reckon I'll give one of the three sides (I never go for PSV for some reason) soon.

[Boss]

Well done Chef Raekwon . Plenty of useful info there for anyone thinking of giving Ajax a go this year.

I started my game on Friday and so far am only 2 friendlies in but really looking forward to seeing how I get on with the likes of De Ligt and De Jong this season (seeing as I'll probably sell them next summer to pave the way for the likes of Schuurs, Gravenberch and Ekkelenkamp)

Another good shout as a long term replacement for De Ligt is Sepp van den Berg from Zwolle. He's a young ball playing defender that I've already got my eye on as the future partner for Schuurs at the heart of my defence.

Look forward to seeing how everyone else gets on with Ajax this year!

[TheJanitor]

A good team guide makes you want to play with the club. I want to play with Ajax. 

By the way, love the Wu-Tang Clan 

[Evanescent]

Excellent write-up.

Best thing about Ajax is the amount of talented players with variable potential means every save is a little different in terms of who makes it. Had enjoyable 4-5 season saves with Ajax in FM17/FM18 and I used Ajax as my first FM19 beta save. I only reached March 2019 in the beta but was enjoying it. The standard of the league means you have plenty of opportunity to rest players for European comps and give youngsters game time (also lots of injuries in beta). Addition of Gravenberch, Brobbey, Taylor and Hansen gives you some more potential wonderkids. In my short save, Schuurs and Sierhuis became regulars quickly while Ekkelenkamp, Gravenberch, Pasquali all had at least 5 starts and 5 sub appearances. Especially liked Schuurs, the CB, RB, DM versatility proved invaluable and he scored a couple of great free kicks.

Aug window signings included Marin, Joveljic, Soucek, Shepelev, Stangl. Departures included Sinkgraven (I don't like his defensive stats, didn't have a long-term injury in beta), Schone (will take what I can for a 32yo, great personality aside), Wober (West Brom made an offer I couldn't refuse) and Mazraoui (I know he is killing it in real life but I hate his tackling and positioning...much rather just use Schuurs, Bakboord or Van Gelderen). January window saw the departure of Van der Beek for 57m to Chelsea. Orejuela left on deadline day with Malacia coming in to replace him. Ziyech nearly left for 28m but rejected Monaco's contract offer. Would definitely recommend Marin and Joveljic for those looking for cheap attacking players at start of the game. Stangl good value on a free to fill in as backup left back too.

[tyro]

He's back with his excellent team introduction and report 

[nico_france]

Brilliant thread

On a side note does De Ligt has this 27.5M€ release clause i triggered in my save at the start of game ? Or it's pure luck to get a release clause for this wonderful player ?

Edited November 7, 2018 by nico_france

[Boss]

2 hours ago, nico_france said:

Brilliant thread

On a side note does De Ligt has this 27.5M€ release clause i triggered in my save at the start of game ? Or it's pure luck to get a release clause for this wonderful player ?

There is no release clause in my game and there wasn't in my Beta test save either so you have got lucky there. What season did you buy him in?

He doesn't have a release clause in his contract IRL.

[nico_france]

Il y a 2 heures, Boss a dit :

There is no release clause in my game and there wasn't in my Beta test save either so you have got lucky there. What season did you buy him in?

He doesn't have a release clause in his contract IRL.

I started with transfer disable

Signed him in February 2019, he joined me in July

[Boss]

23 minutes ago, nico_france said:

I started with transfer disable

Signed him in February 2019, he joined me in July

I'm guessing the release clause was put into a new contract signed by the AI then - fantastic deal for yourself 

[KlaaZ]

Currently in my second season with Ajax, can confirm that at least in the beta De Ligt did not have a buyout fee. He will want to move though, but you can make a bucketload of money from him. He went to Chelsea for, everything in cluded, roughly 76M + 40% on profit (basis is 50M so could still make a fair wad of cash from this). Wöber can become a very reliable replacement as well.

Van de Beek is easier to keep, as are your attacking midfielders, which gives you a very solid basis to work from. 

[Boss]

9 hours ago, KlaaZ said:

Currently in my second season with Ajax, can confirm that at least in the beta De Ligt did not have a buyout fee. He will want to move though, but you can make a bucketload of money from him. He went to Chelsea for, everything in cluded, roughly 76M + 40% on profit (basis is 50M so could still make a fair wad of cash from this). Wöber can become a very reliable replacement as well.

Van de Beek is easier to keep, as are your attacking midfielders, which gives you a very solid basis to work from. 

I really like the look of Wober anyway so I’m not too worried about the day De Ligt leaves. How did you fit Blind into your team? He’s a top earner and one of the leaders in the team but I’m struggling a little to play him ahead of younger alternatives (Tagliafico at LB and De Jong/Eiting at DM)

[KlaaZ]

1 hour ago, Boss said:

I really like the look of Wober anyway so I’m not too worried about the day De Ligt leaves. How did you fit Blind into your team? He’s a top earner and one of the leaders in the team but I’m struggling a little to play him ahead of younger alternatives (Tagliafico at LB and De Jong/Eiting at DM)

Played him plenty the first season as my tactic had 2 DM's and I had to rotate quite a bit. De Jong also picked up a few injuries. Playing him in the left back position seems to be problematic from my experience, he lacks the speed and mobility. Getting harder to give him game time in season two (managed to keep both van de Beek and de Jong, and picked up some solid new midfielders and a talented youth intake DM) but I'm trying to keep him happy because of his dressing room influence. Worst case scenario, just change his squad status to a rotation player.

[KF1990]

Started my save off last night. De Ligt had a bid from Bayern rejected then he kicked off. Agreed I would transfer list him. Now I've got the likes of Watford and Huddersfield making £5m bids for him when I've set his asking price as £40m. Just don't get it. The bigger clubs have made a bid but it's usually a non negotiable deal worth up to £7m.

Didn't realise how much the squad lacks depth, yes they're are some good youngsters in the B Team to call upon but I prefer to send them out on loan to be playing more regularly.   

[Boss]

27 minutes ago, KF1990 said:

Started my save off last night. De Ligt had a bid from Bayern rejected then he kicked off. Agreed I would transfer list him. Now I've got the likes of Watford and Huddersfield making £5m bids for him when I've set his asking price as £40m. Just don't get it. The bigger clubs have made a bid but it's usually a non negotiable deal worth up to £7m.

Didn't realise how much the squad lacks depth, yes they're are some good youngsters in the B Team to call upon but I prefer to send them out on loan to be playing more regularly.   

Where do you think they lack depth out of interest?

I think this Ajax squad probably has more depth than at any point in the last 10 years or so. Most games I'm having to leave the likes of Schone, Labyad etc out of the squad completely. Saying that, I do tend to keep most of the Jong Ajax players at the club so that I can keep an eye on their training/progress more closely. I'll only ever send a player out on loan if he can a) go to an Eredivisie club with an appropriate manager in charge or b) has the right personality type / good determination etc, so naturally I have quite a large pool of players to pick from.

[lblanc]

Left back would be the only place they'd lack depth imo

 

I mean natural left backs I know Blind can play there too

Edited November 8, 2018 by lblanc

[KF1990]

12 minutes ago, Boss said:

Where do you think they lack depth out of interest?

I think this Ajax squad probably has more depth than at any point in the last 10 years or so. Most games I'm having to leave the likes of Schone, Labyad etc out of the squad completely. Saying that, I do tend to keep most of the Jong Ajax players at the club so that I can keep an eye on their training/progress more closely. I'll only ever send a player out on loan if he can a) go to an Eredivisie club with an appropriate manager in charge or b) has the right personality type / good determination etc, so naturally I have quite a large pool of players to pick from.

I think with the injuries it makes them look a little thin on the ground. Long term injuries to Veltman, Sinkgraven & Bande at the start. Plus only 2 natural strikers in Dolberg and Huntelar. Also only 1 out and out left back unless you use Wober or Blind as cover.

I did have injuries occur to Neres and Dolberg in my save so does make the squad look even thinner. Managed to bring in a LB Mads Pedersen and Koopimuen (Not sure on the spelling but young CM/CB from AZ). and Antonia Marin. Still searching for a young striker to bring in as want Sierhuis to get more games in for Jong Ajax.

Think youre right with using the Jong players if needed would help a lot but i'm looking to give them all a bit more experience elsewhere this season with a view to calling upon most of them next season. The only one I called up straight away was Per Shuurs.

[Boss]

7 minutes ago, KF1990 said:

I think with the injuries it makes them look a little thin on the ground. Long term injuries to Veltman, Sinkgraven & Bande at the start. Plus only 2 natural strikers in Dolberg and Huntelar. Also only 1 out and out left back unless you use Wober or Blind as cover.

I did have injuries occur to Neres and Dolberg in my save so does make the squad look even thinner. Managed to bring in a LB Mads Pedersen and Koopimuen (Not sure on the spelling but young CM/CB from AZ). and Antonia Marin. Still searching for a young striker to bring in as want Sierhuis to get more games in for Jong Ajax.

Think youre right with using the Jong players if needed would help a lot but i'm looking to give them all a bit more experience elsewhere this season with a view to calling upon most of them next season. The only one I called up straight away was Per Shuurs.

Schuurs is a future star! He's your De Ligt replacement right there.

[KF1990]

I hope so because I can't imagine De Ligt staying much longer.

[Chef Raekwon]

2 hours ago, lblanc said:

Left back would be the only place they'd lack depth imo

 

I mean natural left backs I know Blind can play there too

Agreed. After Tagliafico, you only have Bakker as a pure left back, and he's still light years away from competing for a first team spot.

I personally use Wöber as a back-up to Tagliafico, and Blind if the need arises. 

Haven't found a good option yet - Tremoulinas is a free agent at the start of the game and would be perfect for the spot, but at the moment, he's not interested to be contracted sadly. Kik Pierie could be an option, but you have to splash some cash to get him and he might be more of a CB. I'm also not really willing to break the bank for a second string left back at the start of the game though, so there's that.

 

What formations / tactics are you guys currently using? 

[lblanc]

14 minutes ago, Chef Raekwon said:

Agreed. After Tagliafico, you only have Bakker as a pure left back, and he's still light years away from competing for a first team spot.

I personally use Wöber as a back-up to Tagliafico, and Blind if the need arises. 

Haven't found a good option yet - Tremoulinas is a free agent at the start of the game and would be perfect for the spot, but at the moment, he's not interested to be contracted sadly. Kik Pierie could be an option, but you have to splash some cash to get him and he might be more of a CB. I'm also not really willing to break the bank for a second string left back at the start of the game though, so there's that.

 

What formations / tactics are you guys currently using? 

Not actually doing an Ajax save myself just a fan

[Boss]

8 hours ago, Chef Raekwon said:

Agreed. After Tagliafico, you only have Bakker as a pure left back, and he's still light years away from competing for a first team spot.

I personally use Wöber as a back-up to Tagliafico, and Blind if the need arises. 

Haven't found a good option yet - Tremoulinas is a free agent at the start of the game and would be perfect for the spot, but at the moment, he's not interested to be contracted sadly. Kik Pierie could be an option, but you have to splash some cash to get him and he might be more of a CB. I'm also not really willing to break the bank for a second string left back at the start of the game though, so there's that.

 

What formations / tactics are you guys currently using? 

I’ve been using Wober or Blind as a backup LB depending on who I’m playing and where their pace lies (down the wings or centrally)

I currently have a strikerless 4-3-3 system whereby Ziyech is playing centrally (for games I believe Huntelaar won’t be as effective in) and then a more traditional 4-3-3 with the long term view of Dolberg as the main central striker.

I’ll upload more details of this in the coming days; I’m currently only 3 games in - all C/L qualifiers so far. 

[TheJanitor]

Finally started my save with Ajax. Got a takeover approach, did anyone else get it? Is Henrichs looking to sell in real life?

[Boss]

35 minutes ago, TheJanitor said:

Finally started my save with Ajax. Got a takeover approach, did anyone else get it? Is Henrichs looking to sell in real life?

Who was the approach from out of interest?

IRL Ajax will not get taken over - van der Sar said as much in a recent interview. This was flagged upto the Dutch researchers but unfortunately seems to have been missed come final release which is a shame.

[TheJanitor]

A consortium led by a former player.

There were rumors about a potential selling I take it? I don't mind it that much, might add a bit of spice to the save.

[steevo55]

Hi guys, it seems the takeover approach is a common thing because in my save there was one first approach wich failed. But the second was the good, the club was bought, the new board improved the facilities.

I'll present you the feedback of my first season

The results

A really good first season, knocked out by Benfica in the play off for champions league in no matchs (0-5), and finally knocked out by Inter (2-4) in Europa Semi-final. Better than expected by the board.

 

The League

An incredible first season in Eredivise with only 2 loss, a really good defense and a strong attack too. No chances for other teams to stole me the title.

 

The transferts

I made several transferts with 2 years instalments, i want to build a very young team.

 

The tactic

A standard tactic, not so much intensity but you stills need to play substitutes.

 

The team

Everybody did the job except maybe Ziyech who i try several times but he just doesn't fit in my tactic. When i played him as a central offensive midfielder he was again not really good. Definitly the main weakness.

Dolberg was a beast, Wober really suprised me, look a this stats was better than De Ligt. After 2 months of adaptation, Dani Olmo and Tonali became first team parts, really solid matchs.

 

The future

I already made 1 more month on the transfert window, i sold Ziyech for 15M and Schöne for 12M. I am now looking for 3 main players (40M to spend) :

- A more offensive wing-back than Tagliafico, he has really strong defensive attributes but i need a player more involved in attack phase

- A complete central midfielder to spot as Van de Beek substitute

- A stubtitute for Dolberg because Huntelaar become quite old

 

Any suggestions to help me ?

 

PS : It seems you can keep your key players De Ligt and De Jong, just told them that are too much important of the team and the really appreciate this

Edited November 9, 2018 by steevo55

[Evanescent]

9 hours ago, TheJanitor said:

Finally started my save with Ajax. Got a takeover approach, did anyone else get it? Is Henrichs looking to sell in real life?

It's a common thing it seems. In my beta save, got taken over by a Czech guy. Replaced the Ajax philosophies with 'sign players of the chairman's nationality'. There was also an approach that failed earlier.

[KlaaZ]

Ditto, consortium led by a Frenchman here. philosophies got erased, didn't get any new ones. 

[gpassosbh]

On ‎09‎/‎11‎/‎2018 at 16:21, steevo55 said:

Hi guys, it seems the takeover approach is a common thing because in my save there was one first approach wich failed. But the second was the good, the club was bought, the new board improved the facilities.

I'll present you the feedback of my first season

The results

A really good first season, knocked out by Benfica in the play off for champions league in no matchs (0-5), and finally knocked out by Inter (2-4) in Europa Semi-final. Better than expected by the board.

 

The League

An incredible first season in Eredivise with only 2 loss, a really good defense and a strong attack too. No chances for other teams to stole me the title.

 

The transferts

I made several transferts with 2 years instalments, i want to build a very young team.

 

The tactic

A standard tactic, not so much intensity but you stills need to play substitutes.

 

The team

Everybody did the job except maybe Ziyech who i try several times but he just doesn't fit in my tactic. When i played him as a central offensive midfielder he was again not really good. Definitly the main weakness.

Dolberg was a beast, Wober really suprised me, look a this stats was better than De Ligt. After 2 months of adaptation, Dani Olmo and Tonali became first team parts, really solid matchs.

 

The future

I already made 1 more month on the transfert window, i sold Ziyech for 15M and Schöne for 12M. I am now looking for 3 main players (40M to spend) :

- A more offensive wing-back than Tagliafico, he has really strong defensive attributes but i need a player more involved in attack phase

- A complete central midfielder to spot as Van de Beek substitute

- A stubtitute for Dolberg because Huntelaar become quite old

 

Any suggestions to help me ?

 

PS : It seems you can keep your key players De Ligt and De Jong, just told them that are too much important of the team and the really appreciate this

Nice season. Congrats.

One question. Do you used the default tactical style "control possession"?? Any major change on this style? Also, used the default suggestion on player position for this tactic?

Thanks 

[Boss]

On 09/11/2018 at 18:21, steevo55 said:

Hi guys, it seems the takeover approach is a common thing because in my save there was one first approach wich failed. But the second was the good, the club was bought, the new board improved the facilities.

I'll present you the feedback of my first season

The results

A really good first season, knocked out by Benfica in the play off for champions league in no matchs (0-5), and finally knocked out by Inter (2-4) in Europa Semi-final. Better than expected by the board.

 

The League

An incredible first season in Eredivise with only 2 loss, a really good defense and a strong attack too. No chances for other teams to stole me the title.

 

The transferts

I made several transferts with 2 years instalments, i want to build a very young team.

 

The tactic

A standard tactic, not so much intensity but you stills need to play substitutes.

 

The team

Everybody did the job except maybe Ziyech who i try several times but he just doesn't fit in my tactic. When i played him as a central offensive midfielder he was again not really good. Definitly the main weakness.

Dolberg was a beast, Wober really suprised me, look a this stats was better than De Ligt. After 2 months of adaptation, Dani Olmo and Tonali became first team parts, really solid matchs.

 

The future

I already made 1 more month on the transfert window, i sold Ziyech for 15M and Schöne for 12M. I am now looking for 3 main players (40M to spend) :

- A more offensive wing-back than Tagliafico, he has really strong defensive attributes but i need a player more involved in attack phase

- A complete central midfielder to spot as Van de Beek substitute

- A stubtitute for Dolberg because Huntelaar become quite old

 

Any suggestions to help me ?

 

PS : It seems you can keep your key players De Ligt and De Jong, just told them that are too much important of the team and the really appreciate this

I see you sold Tadic and you said Ziyech isn't performing for you - that's interesting as I'm struggling with those 2 players too. Granted, I don't play a system that uses an AM, but no matter where I try them (AMR/L or CM) they don't seem to be able to get near the performances of my deeper midfielders; van de Beek and De Jong for example.

I'm only 2 league games in so I'll see how they get on, and possibly tinker around a little with my system to see if I can get them improving as in theory, they both should dominate the Eredivisie.

[lblanc]

On 09/11/2018 at 18:21, steevo55 said:

Hi guys, it seems the takeover approach is a common thing because in my save there was one first approach wich failed. But the second was the good, the club was bought, the new board improved the facilities.

I'll present you the feedback of my first season

The results

A really good first season, knocked out by Benfica in the play off for champions league in no matchs (0-5), and finally knocked out by Inter (2-4) in Europa Semi-final. Better than expected by the board.

 

The League

An incredible first season in Eredivise with only 2 loss, a really good defense and a strong attack too. No chances for other teams to stole me the title.

 

The transferts

I made several transferts with 2 years instalments, i want to build a very young team.

 

The tactic

A standard tactic, not so much intensity but you stills need to play substitutes.

 

The team

Everybody did the job except maybe Ziyech who i try several times but he just doesn't fit in my tactic. When i played him as a central offensive midfielder he was again not really good. Definitly the main weakness.

Dolberg was a beast, Wober really suprised me, look a this stats was better than De Ligt. After 2 months of adaptation, Dani Olmo and Tonali became first team parts, really solid matchs.

 

The future

I already made 1 more month on the transfert window, i sold Ziyech for 15M and Schöne for 12M. I am now looking for 3 main players (40M to spend) :

- A more offensive wing-back than Tagliafico, he has really strong defensive attributes but i need a player more involved in attack phase

- A complete central midfielder to spot as Van de Beek substitute

- A stubtitute for Dolberg because Huntelaar become quite old

 

Any suggestions to help me ?

 

PS : It seems you can keep your key players De Ligt and De Jong, just told them that are too much important of the team and the really appreciate this

I'd be promoting from within for Van de Beek replacement you have Gravenberch ,Ekkelenkamp and Eiting all able to step up into the first team.

Kaj Sierhuis turned into a beast in FM18 not sure how he does in 19 but surely worth a shot too

[Synx]

As a back-up player for Dolberg, you could just try to get Myron Baodo from AZ. Play him rotational and he could become better than Dolberg pretty quick. He is a bit inconsistent at the start though

Second one that comes to mind is Brenner from SPO (Brazil). High potential young striker and rather cheap. I got him for 2.3m in the first transfer window, he might be more expensive after the first one though.

Willem Geubels was a rather cheap high potential option in fm18 as well. Got him several times for like 7-8m. Don't know how he is in fm19.

[zlatanera]

He might be expensive but Palacios at River Plate is a great well-rounded CM (height is his only real weakness) - don't know how much he'd cost, I'm recommending him as I'm playing as them and he's amazing.

Benjamin Rollheiser is a tiny Poacher who could develop well too, same club. 

[Boss]

5 hours ago, lblanc said:

I'd be promoting from within for Van de Beek replacement you have Gravenberch ,Ekkelenkamp and Eiting all able to step up into the first team.

Kaj Sierhuis turned into a beast in FM18 not sure how he does in 19 but surely worth a shot too

Gravenberch is the big future star in midfield for Ajax, and even though he is only 16 at the start of the game, he still should be good enough to play semi-regularly in the league.

I think some of Ekkelenkamp's attributes are random so this might be a case by case one but for me he looks really good and is incredibly determined too (18) which will help.

[KlaaZ]

Two seasons in, Gravenberch is playing as a starter most of the time in my team. Only seventeen but already looking great!

[Chef Raekwon]

I try to play Gravenberch as a rotation option in the first season to help his development, and so far, he hasn't done half bad in the first 6 months of my save. Nabbed youngest goalscorer for Ajax and in the Champions League, which is nice.

 

Cerny is a real revelation for my this season. His potential isn't all that, but his attribute spread is amazing and he's providing many goals and assists to the team, both as a left inside forward on support duty, or as a right winger on attack duty. Based on his performance, I could absolutely field him over Tadic or Neres any day, which is crazy, to say the least!

 

I'm doing well in the league, much like in real life, I only lost to PSV but I did manage to win all other games, which is nice. Drew a group in the Champions League consisting of AS Roma, Lokomotiv Moscow and AEK Athens, and am currently at 5 wins out of 5 games (only Roma away remaining). No restarts of course. Highlights of the season were the home game against Roma, in which Roma was leading 0-1 and Cerny scored twice from the bench in the final 5 minutes, and the game against Heerenveen. Heerenveen scored right from the kick-off without us having a single touch. Then we proceeded to score from our kick-off without them having a single touch. 1-1 after 1 minute. Crazy start to a good game, in which we played well.

 

Currently having a hard time deciding who to play: I have an abundance of talent on the flanks, with Tadic, Neres, Fischer, Cerny, Marin, Stengs, Nunnely and Johnsen all developing well. Playing with a slightly modified database, really wanted to get Fischer and Tremoulinas, so I made that happen. Couldn't hope for more from a Tagliafico backup in Tremoulinas, who's been challenging for a first team spot based on his good performances.

[Evanescent]

37 minutes ago, Chef Raekwon said:

Currently having a hard time deciding who to play: I have an abundance of talent on the flanks, with Tadic, Neres, Fischer, Cerny, Marin, Stengs, Nunnely and Johnsen all developing well. Playing with a slightly modified database, really wanted to get Fischer and Tremoulinas, so I made that happen. Couldn't hope for more from a Tagliafico backup in Tremoulinas, who's been challenging for a first team spot based on his good performances.

How much did you pay for Stengs? In FM18, AZ never wanted to sell me Til, Stengs or Boadu. I got Wijndal but I think I paid some dumb amount.

[dothestrand]

8 minutes ago, Evanescent said:

How much did you pay for Stengs? In FM18, AZ never wanted to sell me Til, Stengs or Boadu. I got Wijndal but I think I paid some dumb amount.

I find the trick is to manage AZ and pick up players from Ajax 

[Jean-Luc]

Wonderful team introduction!

Compliments!

[steevo55]

Thanks guys for the answer

Le 12/11/2018 à 01:43, gpassosbh a dit :

Nice season. Congrats.

One question. Do you used the default tactical style "control possession"?? Any major change on this style? Also, used the default suggestion on player position for this tactic?

Thanks 

I didn't make big changes, you can see my changes on the screenshot. All players have the default instructions.

 

Le 12/11/2018 à 10:13, Boss a dit :

I see you sold Tadic and you said Ziyech isn't performing for you - that's interesting as I'm struggling with those 2 players too. Granted, I don't play a system that uses an AM, but no matter where I try them (AMR/L or CM) they don't seem to be able to get near the performances of my deeper midfielders; van de Beek and De Jong for example.

I'm only 2 league games in so I'll see how they get on, and possibly tinker around a little with my system to see if I can get them improving as in theory, they both should dominate the Eredivisie.

Tadic quite underperformed before i sold him and he was too old for my philosophy. Ziyech really underperformed in all midfield positions. So it was the same for me, these players don't fit in my tactic. Their abilites are good but i don't why they are so bad in my game. I expected Ziyech to be the star of my team, he wasn't.

 

Le 12/11/2018 à 10:53, lblanc a dit :

I'd be promoting from within for Van de Beek replacement you have Gravenberch ,Ekkelenkamp and Eiting all able to step up into the first team.

Kaj Sierhuis turned into a beast in FM18 not sure how he does in 19 but surely worth a shot too

Gravenberch is already good, but to offensive, i'm thinking to play in on the wings. Eiting and Ekkelenkamp need time to improve.

Sierhuis have a lot of potential, definitely the perfect substitute for Dolberg.

 

Le 12/11/2018 à 13:11, Synx a dit :

As a back-up player for Dolberg, you could just try to get Myron Baodo from AZ. Play him rotational and he could become better than Dolberg pretty quick. He is a bit inconsistent at the start though

Second one that comes to mind is Brenner from SPO (Brazil). High potential young striker and rather cheap. I got him for 2.3m in the first transfer window, he might be more expensive after the first one though.

Willem Geubels was a rather cheap high potential option in fm18 as well. Got him several times for like 7-8m. Don't know how he is in fm19.

Boadu is too expensive, Brenner isn't in my save. Geubbels must have more potential in this FM and he has the dutch second nationality but he his in Monaco now and too expensive again.

Edited November 13, 2018 by steevo55

[Chef Raekwon]

58 minutes ago, Evanescent said:

How much did you pay for Stengs? In FM18, AZ never wanted to sell me Til, Stengs or Boadu. I got Wijndal but I think I paid some dumb amount.

Got him for 3,7M in the beta. AZ did quote me 98M for Boadu, so don't think that deal is happening anytime soon!

[KlaaZ]

4 hours ago, Chef Raekwon said:

I try to play Gravenberch as a rotation option in the first season to help his development, and so far, he hasn't done half bad in the first 6 months of my save. Nabbed youngest goalscorer for Ajax and in the Champions League, which is nice.

 

Cerny is a real revelation for my this season. His potential isn't all that, but his attribute spread is amazing and he's providing many goals and assists to the team, both as a left inside forward on support duty, or as a right winger on attack duty. Based on his performance, I could absolutely field him over Tadic or Neres any day, which is crazy, to say the least!

 

I'm doing well in the league, much like in real life, I only lost to PSV but I did manage to win all other games, which is nice. Drew a group in the Champions League consisting of AS Roma, Lokomotiv Moscow and AEK Athens, and am currently at 5 wins out of 5 games (only Roma away remaining). No restarts of course. Highlights of the season were the home game against Roma, in which Roma was leading 0-1 and Cerny scored twice from the bench in the final 5 minutes, and the game against Heerenveen. Heerenveen scored right from the kick-off without us having a single touch. Then we proceeded to score from our kick-off without them having a single touch. 1-1 after 1 minute. Crazy start to a good game, in which we played well.

 

Currently having a hard time deciding who to play: I have an abundance of talent on the flanks, with Tadic, Neres, Fischer, Cerny, Marin, Stengs, Nunnely and Johnsen all developing well. Playing with a slightly modified database, really wanted to get Fischer and Tremoulinas, so I made that happen. Couldn't hope for more from a Tagliafico backup in Tremoulinas, who's been challenging for a first team spot based on his good performances.

I envy you. My two CL groups so far were Atletico Madrid, RB Leipzig and Inter in the second season and Barcelona, Napoli and AEK in the first. I actually managed to win the latter group by drawing Barca home and away, drawing Napoli at home, stealing a win away and then beating AEK twice. 

[wouterb]

How do you fit Tadic and Ziyech in your teams? Both have only AM as natural position...

[KlaaZ]

4 minutes ago, wouterb said:

How do you fit Tadic and Ziyech in your teams? Both have only AM as natural position...

I actually used to play Ziyech as a winger most of the time, did pretty well there. Free kick expert as well. Tadic kan also play from both flanks with the right probably being the better option as an IF.