Klaas-Jan Huntelaar bekritiseert de defensie van Ajax

Ajax Defensive Vulnerabilities Draw Criticism From Klaas-Jan Huntelaar

Former Ajax striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has voiced public dissatisfaction with the club’s defensive fragility, pointing out that too many goals conceded are hurting their ambitions to compete for the top spots. Speaking in a recent media appearance, the former Netherlands international highlighted matches where Ajax secured high-scoring wins but lacked the necessary tactical control to command the pitch.

Huntelaar Criticizes Lack of Defensive Stability

According to Voetbal International’s Pak Schaal Podcast, Huntelaar specifically pointed to scorelines such as 5-3 and 4-2 victories against FC Sion to illustrate a worrying lack of defensive stability.

Huntelaar argued that matches resulting in draws against opponents like SC Heerenveen and Excelsior are unacceptable for a club wanting to play for the top spots. VoetbalPrimeur noted that the former forward stressed the need for greater control, emphasizing that those who want to play for the top spots must win such encounters.

Assessment of Ajax Strikers Tolu Arokodare and Marcos Leonardo

Beyond the team’s defensive setup, Huntelaar evaluated the current attacking options available in Amsterdam. He expressed confidence in Tolu Arokodare, stating that the forward performs well, scores goals, and provides a dangerous focal point in attack whenever he steps onto the pitch.

In contrast, Huntelaar offered a more reserved assessment of Marcos Leonardo. He noted that the attacker faces a tougher period, having missed opportunities when handed playing time, and concluded that the forward still requires some things.

Reflecting on Brian Brobbey’s Development at Ajax and Abroad

Huntelaar also discussed the trajectory of Brian Brobbey, whom the former director helped bring back to Amsterdam from RB Leipzig during his tenure in the club’s management. Brobbey was acquired for a fee exceeding 16 million euros after leaving for Germany on a free transfer.

VoetbalPrimeur added that Huntelaar remains in contact with the 24-year-old striker, occasionally sending messages—such as after Brobbey’s three-goal performance against City. Huntelaar admitted to feeling proud of Brobbey’s progress but maintained that the player could have shown even more during his time at Ajax before making his final developmental leap in the Premier League.