AMSTERDAM, Netherlands – The fallout from Ajax’s 3-1 defeat to FC Groningen continues, extending beyond the Eredivisie and capturing attention in Indonesia following sharp criticism of goalkeeper Maarten Paes by former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart. The exchange, initially sparked by Paes’s post-match comments, has ignited a debate about team spirit and individual responsibility, resonating with fans in Paes’s ancestral homeland.
The controversy began after the loss to Groningen on March 10, 2026. Paes openly questioned his team’s cohesion, stating, “After the 2-1, we didn’t show at all that we are a team. That is painful.” He added, “I’m not someone who points fingers at others, I’m a big boy, so I take that responsibility, but I think you all saw that we let each other down at the end.” These remarks, intended as self-assessment and a call for collective improvement, became the focal point of a heated discussion on the Dutch sports program Rondo on Ziggo Sport.
It was during this broadcast that Van der Vaart delivered a scathing rebuke of Paes. According to reports from Dutch media outlet ajax1.nl and Indonesian news source Suara.com, Van der Vaart questioned Paes’s suitability for the club, suggesting he should be “sent back to America,” referencing Paes’s time playing in Major League Soccer. He criticized Paes’s perceived lack of humility and team focus, stating, “He holds a ball, runs out of the box and curses everyone. I have nothing to do with that.”
The intensity of Van der Vaart’s comments quickly transcended Dutch football circles. Indonesian media outlets, particularly Suara.com, picked up the story, highlighting Paes’s Indonesian heritage – specifically his Kediri ancestry – and framing the criticism as a matter of national pride. The report noted the widespread circulation of Van der Vaart’s remarks within Indonesia, suggesting a significant level of engagement with the story among Indonesian football fans.
Maarten Paes, born in Nijmegen, Netherlands on May 14, 1998, has had a varied career. According to his Wikipedia profile, he began his youth career with VV Union and NEC before moving to Utrecht. He spent several seasons in the United States with FC Dallas, making 114 appearances before returning to the Netherlands to join Ajax in 2026. He has also represented the Netherlands at various youth levels and recently began playing for the Indonesian national team, earning 10 caps as of October 11, 2025.
The timing of this controversy is particularly sensitive for Ajax, who are currently seeking to regain their footing in the Eredivisie. The team’s recent form has been inconsistent, and the internal friction highlighted by Paes’s initial comments and Van der Vaart’s subsequent criticism raises questions about the team’s unity and leadership. The incident underscores the pressures faced by players in high-profile leagues and the scrutiny they endure from both the media and former professionals.
The debate also touches on the evolving role of the modern goalkeeper. Traditionally seen as a last line of defense, goalkeepers are now increasingly expected to be vocal leaders and distributors of the ball. Paes’s willingness to publicly critique his teammates, while perhaps unconventional, could be interpreted as an attempt to hold the team accountable. However, Van der Vaart’s response suggests that such public criticism is unacceptable, particularly from a relatively new member of the squad.
Ajax will seem to put this distraction behind them as they prepare to face Sparta Rotterdam on Saturday evening. The match represents an opportunity for the team to demonstrate resilience and reaffirm their commitment to a collective effort. The outcome will undoubtedly be closely watched, not only by Ajax fans but also by observers in Indonesia, where the Paes saga has resonated deeply.
What’s Next: Ajax travels to Sparta Rotterdam for a crucial Eredivisie match on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The match is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM CET (2:00 PM EST).
What are your thoughts on Van der Vaart’s comments and Paes’s response? Share your opinions in the comments below.
