Ajax and Feyenoord face scrutiny over transfer strategies and player conduct

Ajax management and critics are divided over the club's recent transfer strategy under technical director Jordi Cruijff. General director Menno Geelen defended the recent recruitment of eleven players, stating that no irresponsible risks were taken and that investments were made to improve squad balance and experience. Geelen emphasized that the club remains committed to its creative and attacking philosophy.

However, Rob Jansen has criticized this direction, arguing that the focus on short-term success through experienced players deviates from the traditional Ajax philosophy of prioritizing youth academy graduates. Jansen warned that such a shift could lead to an unsustainable wage structure.

In separate news, Feyenoord winger Anis Hadj Moussa has been left out of the squad for a match against NEC following instances of tardiness. The player is reportedly seeking a transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad, which has increased its bid to approximately 40 million euros. While Feyenoord manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst stated the club does not expect the player to depart, analysts note the significant financial pressure caused by the high offers from Saudi Arabia.