Amsterdam – The question of how to best utilize Oscar Gloukh continues to swirl around Ajax, with growing calls for the young Israeli to feature more prominently in the squad. Recent commentary from Voetbal International journalist Jos Boesveld suggests that Ajax may be undervaluing a player who possesses a creative spark reminiscent of former Ajax stars Hakim Ziyech and Wesley Sneijder. The debate comes as Ajax prepares to face FC Twente on Saturday, a match where Gloukh could potentially see increased playing time.
Gloukh, who arrived at Ajax last summer for a reported €14.8 million from Red Bull Salzburg, has found himself largely on the bench under current management. Despite limited minutes, his statistical output – five goals and five assists in Eredivisie play – is noteworthy. Boesveld highlighted this point, stating that Gloukh’s numbers are among the best at Ajax, despite his limited role. This discrepancy has fueled the argument that Ajax needs to find a way to integrate Gloukh more consistently into the starting lineup.
The core of the discussion revolves around Gloukh’s playing style. Boesveld described him as a player with “high peaks and deep valleys,” capable of brilliant moments on the ball but also prone to self-centered play. This tendency to prioritize scoring opportunities over passing to teammates, while understandable for an attacker, has reportedly caused frustration among his fellow players. The journalist noted Gloukh’s strong desire to prove himself, a drive that sometimes overshadows team cohesion.
However, Boesveld argues that the potential rewards outweigh the risks. He draws parallels to Hakim Ziyech, a player who, despite occasionally erratic decision-making – once recording 47 ball losses in a single match, according to Voetbal International – was celebrated for his moments of brilliance. The comparison suggests that Ajax might benefit from allowing Gloukh the freedom to express his creativity, even if it comes with occasional turnovers. A well-organized team, Boesveld contends, can mitigate those risks and capitalize on Gloukh’s attacking flair.
The conversation extends to a comparison with Wesley Sneijder, a pivotal figure in Dutch football history. Boesveld recalled Sneijder’s performance at the 2010 World Cup, where his success was predicated on the defensive solidity provided by players like Mark van Bommel and Nigel de Jong. This analogy suggests that if Ajax can establish a strong defensive foundation, they can afford to supply a player like Gloukh the license to operate as a creative force in midfield. The ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes, as Sneijder did, is a quality Ajax currently appears to be lacking.
Gloukh himself recently addressed his limited playing time in an interview with media in Israel, confirming he had spoken with Ajax technical director Jordi Cruijff about his concerns. This dialogue suggests an open line of communication between player and management, but it doesn’t necessarily guarantee increased playing time. Boesveld acknowledged that former Ajax coach Maurice Grim also hesitated to fully integrate Gloukh, potentially due to concerns about risk management.
As Ajax prepares to host FC Twente this Saturday, the question of Gloukh’s role remains. The team will be looking to solidify their position in the Eredivisie standings, and a creative spark from the Israeli midfielder could prove crucial. The match presents an opportunity for Gloukh to demonstrate his value and potentially earn a more consistent place in the starting eleven. He last featured for Ajax on March 1st, in an away match against PEC Zwolle, and has been an unused substitute in subsequent games against FC Groningen, Sparta Rotterdam, and Feyenoord.
The debate surrounding Oscar Gloukh highlights a broader challenge for Ajax: balancing tactical discipline with individual creativity. Finding the right formula to unlock Gloukh’s potential could be key to reigniting Ajax’s attack and achieving their ambitions this season. The upcoming match against FC Twente will be a significant test, not only for the team as a whole but also for Gloukh’s prospects within the club.
Ajax fans will be watching closely to see if Gloukh is given the opportunity to shine. The team’s performance in the coming weeks will likely determine whether the young Israeli becomes a regular fixture in the starting lineup or remains a valuable, but underutilized, asset on the bench.
Worth a look
