High Hopes for Ajax

As tempting as it might be to wait until after the transfer window is boarded and nailed shut, this weekend’s opener begs for a few lines on how the season will probably go in Amsterdam. Following the cue of our fearless leader, let’s boldly proclaim that the squad is settled and ready for 08-09. I can always come back later and delete that line. So, how will this season go?

We will quickly get a glimpse at our title prospects with a trip to F*word for the third match of the season. They have made changes again, after last year’s “re-invented” squad disappointed. They could stink again, but the classic will always be a classic. A trip to Heerenveen follows two weeks later. Will we dominate the Frisians like we did last year, Bradley or no Bradley?

The first day of November will see Ajax get a shot at some revenge at Twente. They stole our CL spot and promptly surrendered it to Arsenal. Hopefully, that won’t happen again. Of course, all this is preparation for back-to-back matches hosting PSV and at AZ. If this is our year, we have to beat PSV in Amsterdam to send a message in the first half. The AZ matchup has lost some of its luster, but their manager would love to have some of that luster back. It remains to be seen if AZ can continue to claim the place of third best domestic team, and their matches against Ajax and PSV will go a long ways to determine this.

Hopefully, by the time we host Den Haag just before the winter break, our young squad will be battle-tested and in front. PSV has held comfortable leads for the spring stretch run for a few years. If we get a strong lead, we can upset the rhythm of the Eredivisie that has not swung our way for some time.

Ajax will enter the KNVB Cup with a match in Amsterdam with Utrecht in late September. With no amateur side to “warm-up” to the Cup with, we are going to have to come out firing to win over a top-flight rival. Let’s hope we draw better in the second round, after we qualify for it, of course.

I am going to say that winning the Eredivisie should be priority one, with the domestic cup number two. I am not terribly concerned with the UEFA Cup. It will be a terrific experience, for most of our squad lacks frequent European experience, and the rest of it lacks GOOD experiences against European competition. If we can put some old jinxes to rest, win a match or two away from home, and still be in it after Christmas, I will be pleased. Next year should be a year for European glory.

Category: Team News

Tags: Team News

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