Frank de Boer attacks Míchel Sánchez after Conference defeat

While Míchel Sánchez celebrated Girona's historic qualification for the Champions League after finishing third in the 2023‑2024 season, the same Ajax coach faces Frank de Boer's fury after the 2‑1 defeat to Hajduk Split in the Conference League.

De Boer’s criticism of the second‑half eleven

Frank de Boer, former Barça and Ajax player, accused Míchel Sánchez of having placed Jofre Torrents, a 19‑year‑old left‑back with no prior experience, in a hostile environment. “You put a left‑back who had never played before… line up that boy for the first time in such a hostile environment… Honestly, I would have preferred to see Wijndal,” de Boer said.

De Boer’s comment came after the Dutch side’s defeat in Croatia, where Ajax lost 2‑1 to Hajduk Split, an elimination that has called into question Jordi Cruyff’s gamble on the Madrid‑born coach.

Reactions and context of the Ajax project

Toby Alderweireld, former Atlético de Madrid player, questioned Míchel Sánchez’s communication, asking whether he addresses the team in English or Spanish, and suggesting that the lack of clarity affects the transmission of passion.

Ajax under fire: De Boer criticizes Michel for his English

De Boer replied to Alderweireld saying that “it isn’t understood the same way, besides you have to convey passion… It’s embarrassing to sit and listen to him.”

In the Eredivisie, Ajax sit in fifth place, five points behind leaders Feyenoord, after four wins, three draws and one loss since Míchel Sánchez’s arrival.

Jordi Cruyff, who trusted the Spaniard despite Girona’s relegation, defended his appointment at the press conference: “Míchel is an ambitious and demanding coach… His approach fits Ajax.” He added that five seasons at the same LaLiga club speak to his qualities and loyalty.

Bitter debut in Europe for Jofre Torrents with Ajax

Although Míchel Sánchez’s project includes Girona’s historic qualification for the Champions League, the pressure at Ajax is mounting as de Boer and Alderweireld remain unsatisfied with the results.