Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam have officially confirmed the appointment of former Girona manager Míchel as their new head coach. The 50-year-old Spaniard has put pen to paper on a two-year contract with the Eredivisie club.
Míchel parted ways with Girona last week following a disappointing campaign that saw the Catalan club relegated from La Liga. A 1-1 draw against Elche at the Estadi Montilivi on the final matchday sealed a 19th-place finish, ending Girona’s four-year stay in the Spanish top flight.
The Jordi Cruyff Era: A Complete Overhaul at Ajax
In Amsterdam, the Madrid-born coach will team up with former Barcelona director Jordi Cruyff, who took over as Ajax’s technical director in February 2026.
This appointment marks the first major move by Jordi Cruyff (son of Ajax legend Johan Cruyff) since replacing Alex Kroes. Cruyff is reportedly planning a massive squad overhaul, aiming to bring 10 to 15 new players to the Johan Cruyff ArenA this summer.
Reacting to his move, Míchel stated in an official club release:
“It feels good to be here; I am proud to take this next step in my career. Ajax is a massive name in European football, a club that has always been renowned for producing and developing young, talented players.”
Míchel’s arrival comes after a highly turbulent season for Ajax. The club finished fifth in the Eredivisie with just 56 points—their lowest league points tally since 1962.
Míchel’s Track Record: From Girona Heroics to La Liga History
Despite the recent relegation, Míchel boasts an impressive managerial track record. After joining Girona in 2021, he secured immediate promotion to La Liga in his debut season.
In their historic second top-flight campaign, Míchel guided Girona to a phenomenal top-four finish, qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in the club’s history. His tactical masterclass earned him the prestigious La Liga Manager of the Season award.
