Ter Stegen faces criticism at Ajax after Klopp's nomination

In the flickering light of the Johan‑Cruyff‑Arena, the fans of Ajax Amsterdam saw a match that raised more questions than answers: just a few days after his nomination by Jürgen Klopp, Marc‑Andre ter Stegen was at the centre of criticism because Ajax unexpectedly settled for a 2:2 draw against Excelsior.

A surprising draw for Ajax

The Dutch record champions Ajax fell at home in the Eredivisie against Excelsior, missing out on three points in the title race. Despite a clear superiority of coach Michel, measured by a shot ratio of 27:3, the performance was not enough for a win.

Two German stars were in the spotlight: Julian Brandt scored after just over half an hour, set up by striker Kasper Dolberg up front. For the long‑time BVB midfielder it was already his sixth goal in the eleventh league match, and he had scored in the last three games in a row.

Excelsior turned the game around with goals from Lennart Hartjes (45+1) and Aymen Sliti (62). Tolu Arokodare brought the hosts level in the 64th minute for a 2‑2 finish. This leaves Ajax, before the international break, in fifth place, five points behind league leaders AZ Alkmaar.

Criticism of Ter Stegen after the match

After Sliti's equaliser, Ter Stegen came under criticism for failing to deal with a low cross, thereby allowing the goal. The Spanish press wrote that Ter Stegen, with only two shots on target, had conceded two goals and could have done more on the second – a judgment presented in the style of a sports analysis.

The 34‑year‑old goalkeeper himself said: “Anyone who saw the match saw that we deserved more. We should have built on our lead in the first half. It is our own fault that we did not win.”

This is not Ter Stegen’s first unlucky appearance in an Ajax shirt; just a few weeks ago he had to endure criticism after a 1‑3 defeat to PSV. Nevertheless, Jürgen Klopp stressed last week that the 34‑year‑old goalkeeper is still the number‑one choice for the German national team.

Ter Stegen added: “That means a lot to me. I suffered a great deal during my recovery. I always try to give my best, to show the best version of myself, and I am happy to be back.” He added that every child who plays football dreams of representing their country, and that the way he is treated in Germany means a great deal to him.