Ajax have dismissed manager Alfred Schreuder following a string of unimpressive results, the club confirmed on their official website.
The pressure had been mounting on Schreuder, who was going through a lean patch after failing to win a single game since before the World Cup.
The latest 1-1 draw against Volendam marked Ajax’s seventh straight game in Eredivisie without a victory – the club’s worst-ever record in more than 20 years.
It also proved to be the final nail in the coffin for Schreuder, who was relieved of his duties just six months after his arrival.
The Dutch manager took over the reins from Erik ten Hag last summer but has failed to fill the void left by the current Manchester United gaffer.
The reigning Eredivisie champions are currently fifth in the table while they were also knocked out of the Champions League at the group stage.
Schreuder also seemingly lost support from the fans due to his frequent explosive interviews and the exit of veteran defender Daley Blind.
The Dutch defender fell out of favour with Schreuder, which led to his transfer to Bayern Munich midway through the season. It didn’t go down well with the Ajax faithful.
Ajax director Edwin van der Sar commented on the sacking of Schreuder, stating that the results hadn’t improved despite the former Barcelona assistant coach being given enough time.
“This is a painful decision, but it’s necessary,” Van der Sar said.
“Regardless of the good start to the season, we lost a lot of unnecessary points. The football itself was precarious too.
“Due to the World Cup, we had an early and long break during the winter. We gave Alfred our time and trust to change the way things were going. It became clear to us that he could not change the tide.
“Regardless of the many transfers that took place, we consider the squad fit for a championship. We lost a lot of points over the last few weeks and sadly saw a lack of progression.”
Schreuder’s assistant Matthias Kaltenbach has also been given his marching orders. It is unclear who will next take charge at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
