Ajax Tension Mounts as Wout Weghorst Linked With Twente and Benfica Moves

The relationship between Wout Weghorst and the Ajax coaching staff has reached a public breaking point, leaving the 33-year-old striker in the center of a transfer whirlwind. Following a visually tense substitution during a recent clash with FC Twente, reports suggest the Dutch international is likely entering his final months with the Amsterdam club.

The friction peaked last Saturday during a home match where Ajax suffered a 1-2 defeat to FC Twente. Despite finding the back of the net to bring the score to 1-1, Weghorst was substituted after 70 minutes by manager Óscar García in favor of Don-Angelo Konadu. The reaction that followed was far from professional: Weghorst visibly refused to shake García’s hand upon leaving the pitch and later declined a post-match interview with journalist Cristian Willaert.

For those following the Eredivisie, this isn’t just a momentary lapse in temperament. It is the culmination of a volatile tenure. Weghorst spent a significant portion of his time at Ajax in a reserve role behind Kasper Dolberg before eventually fighting his way back into the starting lineup under García. Still, the recent display of frustration suggests that the bridge between the striker and his manager may be permanently burned.

The Twente Return: A Strong Possibility

While the drama unfolds in Amsterdam, FC Twente has emerged as a primary destination for the striker. Club watcher Mike Verweij of De Telegraaf has indicated that there is a strong chance Weghorst will continue his career in Enschede. Weghorst is already strongly linked with a domestic move to the club and sources suggest that if Twente expresses a formal desire to sign him, the move is highly probable.

A return to Twente would represent a homecoming of sorts for the towering forward, who has already established himself as one of the most physical presences in Dutch football. With his current contract at Ajax due to expire and no expectation of a renewal, a move to Twente offers a stable path back to a club where he is highly regarded.

The Mourinho Factor and Benfica Interest

Despite the domestic interest, Weghorst may have his sights set beyond the borders of the Netherlands. According to journalist Jop van Kempen of Parool, several foreign clubs are monitoring the situation, with Portuguese giants Benfica emerging as a serious contender.

The allure of Lisbon is compounded by the presence of manager José Mourinho. Van Kempen has noted that a partnership between Weghorst and the iconic coach could be a “brilliant combination,” given Mourinho’s history of utilizing tactically disciplined and physically dominant strikers to disrupt opposing defenses.

For Weghorst, a move to Benfica would mark another chapter in a career defined by high-profile loans and international experience. Having played in the Premier League with Burnley and Manchester United, as well as stints in Germany with VfL Wolfsburg and TSG Hoffenheim, the striker is well-equipped for the pressure of a top-tier European league.

By the Numbers: Weghorst’s Ajax Tenure

Despite the current turmoil, Weghorst’s output at Ajax has remained respectable. Since returning to the Netherlands in mid-2024, he has provided a consistent goal threat when given the opportunity.

Note: Stats verified via official career records.

Fan Backlash and the ‘Theater’ at the Johan Cruyff Arena

The reaction from the Ajax faithful has been swift and largely unforgiving. Following the match against Twente, social media was flooded with criticism of Weghorst’s behavior. Many supporters have labeled his reaction to the substitution as unnecessary “theater,” arguing that his frustration was misplaced given the team’s overall performance.

Critics on platform X have pointed out that while Weghorst scored, his contribution over the 70 minutes he played was insufficient to justify his public defiance of the manager. This disconnect between the player and the fans creates a precarious environment, further accelerating the likelihood of his departure this summer.

To put this in perspective for global readers, the relationship between a striker and the supporters in Amsterdam is historically demanding; when a player is perceived as putting their own ego above the club’s discipline, the atmosphere can turn toxic very quickly.

Tactical Implications of a Departure

If Weghorst departs, Óscar García will be forced to reshape his attacking front. The manager has already begun integrating younger talent, as seen with the introduction of Don-Angelo Konadu. The shift away from a traditional “target man” like Weghorst could signal a transition toward a more mobile, fluid attacking system.

Conversely, for FC Twente or Benfica, acquiring Weghorst provides an immediate solution for aerial dominance and hold-up play. In a league like the Eredivisie, where tactical flexibility is key, having a 6’6″ striker who can similarly contribute to the build-up remains a significant asset.

Key Takeaways on the Weghorst Saga

• Contract Status: Weghorst’s Ajax contract is expiring and unlikely to be renewed.
• Managerial Rift: Public conflict with Óscar García has intensified after a refused handshake and declined interview.
• Domestic Interest: FC Twente is viewed as a highly likely destination.
• International Interest: Benfica and José Mourinho are reportedly eyeing the striker.
• Fan Sentiment: Ajax supporters are increasingly critical of his on-field conduct.

The coming weeks will be critical for all parties involved. As the transfer window approaches, the decision will likely come down to whether Weghorst prefers the comfort of a domestic return to Twente or the prestige of a final high-level challenge under Mourinho in Portugal.

Next Checkpoint: Ajax faces FC Volendam on April 10, 2026, at 13:00 local time. All eyes will be on the team sheet to notice if Weghorst remains in García’s plans or if the rift has led to an immediate sidelineing.

Do you think Weghorst is a better fit for the tactical discipline of Mourinho at Benfica or a homecoming at FC Twente? Let us realize in the comments below.