Ajax's Míchel builds an all‑Spanish backroom staff for next season

Ajax announced on 26 June 2026 that head coach Míchel will lead a technical team composed entirely of Spaniards, appointing Juanvi Peinado (53) and Alberto Garrido (50) as assistants and Juan Carlos Balaguer (60) as goalkeeping coach. Peinado revealed his move on Instagram after a spell as Guadalajara's third‑tier coach, while Garrido arrives from Watford after service in Real Madrid's academy.

Peinado, a Madrileño, was most recently the coach of Guadalajara's third‑tier side in Spain. Earlier in his career he held various positions at Real Madrid, Sevilla, Wolves and West Ham.

Garrido, 50, was employed in England at Watford before joining Ajax. Prior to that he spent many years in several roles within Real Madrid's academy.

Balaguer, 60, had worked with Míchel at Girona in recent seasons. The Spanish goalkeeping coach also served in the same role at other Spanish clubs and left Girona with a contract that was ending.

Ajax also hired 40‑year‑old David Porcel as the new performance coach, moving from Catalonia. Porcel replaces Sam Feringa, who announced his departure from Ajax earlier in the week.

The announcements were made by Ajax on 26 June 2026, confirming the all‑Spanish composition of the backroom staff. Journalist Johan Inan, who covers Ajax for Clubwatcher, reported the details and noted his ongoing focus on the club.