Ajax Returns to Eredivisie Without Kasper Dolberg, Míchel
October 11, 2026 · NetherlandsBrasil
Ajax will continue the Eredivisie competition without Kasper Dolberg who is suffering from a serious injury. Coach Míchel Sánchez is optimistic about the performance of Marcos Leonardo who has just joined.
Ajax Returns to Eredivisie Without Kasper Dolberg, Míchel
According to Nos.
Background
Kasper Dolberg, Ajax's main striker, suffered a serious injury which required him to undergo surgery. His loss will force Ajax to adjust their tactics, especially up front, where Marcos Leonardo is expected to fill that role. Ajax, as one of the leading clubs in the Eredivisie, must immediately find a way to remain competitive in the league.
Why this is important
Losing Kasper Dolberg is a big challenge for Ajax, who are currently struggling to improve their position in the Eredivisie. Dolberg's serious injury could affect the team's performance, especially considering the importance of his role as the main striker. Coach Míchel Sánchez must find a solution to fill this void, especially with important matches coming up.
Main Points
- Ajax Returns to Eredivisie Without Kasper Dolberg, Míchel.
- Ajax will continue the Eredivisie competition without Kasper Dolberg who is seriously injured.
- Zonder Dolberg, maar met 'vertrouwen in Leonardo' hervat Ajax de eredivisie.
After an international break lasting almost three weeks, Ajax, currently fifth in the Eredivisie, is looking to return to its best form. They will continue their competition tonight at the Johan Cruijff Arena against NEC. This time break can be considered as the second preparation for Ajax, especially after the arrival of two new midfielders, Sofyan Amrabat and Yves Bissouma, as well as Simon Adingra who is on loan from Sunderland.
"We are very excited to be back playing," said Ajax coach Míchel Sánchez. "Training has gone well and I saw a lot of improvement compared to our last match. Some players, such as Aaron Bouwman, have had the opportunity to recover during this period. And the new players have adapted to Ajax's mentality and philosophy."
However, Sánchez is not too happy with the long break in the middle of the season. "An international break that is too long like this is not ideal," he explained. He stressed that the players were not getting enough rest. "But, unfortunately, we can't change that. That's something UEFA and FIFA have to deal with."
One big concern for Sánchez is Kasper Dolberg's injury. The Ajax main striker suffered a serious injury while training with the Danish national team, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament and having to undergo surgery. "I spoke to Kasper on the phone. It was a big blow for him, but the operation went well. It will probably be difficult for him to play again this year," added Sánchez.
Sánchez also took advantage of this break to return to Spain, where he can support his son who also has a similar injury. Additionally, he took an intensive English course to improve his ability to communicate with the media.
"Explaining philosophy to players is not difficult, but speaking in front of the media is more challenging for me," he explained. However, the focus will soon shift back to the pitch, as Ajax will enter a crucial period with eight matches in thirty days, including games against FC Groningen, Atalanta Bergamo in the Conference League, as well as AZ and FC Twente.
Now, Ajax must show how well they have developed thanks to the contribution of experienced players such as Marc Ter Stegen, Thilo Kehrer, Amrabat, Julian Brandt and Tolu Arokodare. Míchel also expressed his confidence in Marcos Leonardo, the Brazilian striker bought for almost 20 million euros, even though he is yet to show his best form.
"We have discussed with Leo about how to bring out the best version of him. He has trained well and is improving," said Míchel.
Ajax is proven to have made significant progress compared to the previous season, as seen from their attacking style of play which creates more opportunities and goals. However, they also had to overcome the problem of losing the ball and conceding a lot of chances, which resulted in seven points dropped after seven games in the Eredivisie. Thus, they are now in fifth place, behind AZ, Feyenoord, PSV and FC Twente.
"Our playing style is very clear: we have to play forward, have more of the ball and dominate the match. We are trying to improve this by convincing the players of our philosophy," concluded Míchel.
The match between Ajax and NEC will be broadcast live tonight starting at 21.00 WIB via NOS Langs de Lijn on NPO Radio 1 and can also be followed via liveblog on NOS.nl and the NOS application. Match summaries will be available online after the match has finished.
What happened next
Ajax are expected to continue the Eredivisie competition without Dolberg, with coach Míchel Sánchez relying on recently joined Marcos Leonardo. Adapting new players such as Sofyan Amrabat and Yves Bissouma will also be key to improving the team's performance. The match against NEC will be an initial test for Sánchez's new strategy after Dolberg's injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Kasper Dolberg?
Kasper Dolberg suffered a serious injury while training with the Danish national team, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament and having to undergo surgery.
Who confirmed Kasper Dolberg's injury?
Ajax coach Míchel Sánchez confirmed Kasper Dolberg's injury and stated that the operation went well.
Why is Ajax back in play now?
Ajax returned to play after an international break lasting almost three weeks, with the aim of returning to their best performance.
What changes have occurred in the Ajax team?
Ajax have brought in two new midfielders, Sofyan Amrabat and Yves Bissouma, as well as Simon Adingra who is on loan from Sunderland.
Why is Míchel Sánchez unhappy with the international break?
Míchel Sánchez feels that a long international break is not ideal because the players do not get enough rest.