Klaassen credits Míchel’s halftime tweak as Ajax’s winning key

On a buzzing evening at the Amsterdam Arena, Davy Klaassen hailed Daley Blind’s return and insisted that coach Míchel’s halftime criticism about player positioning was the decisive factor in Ajax’s 4-1 Conference League triumph over FK Vojvodina, a match reported at 22:23 today.

Speaking to , the experienced midfielder said, “Het gaat steeds beter. Ik denk zeker dat er een stijgende lijn in zit,” adding that the side is on an upward trajectory after the convincing win.

He noted that beginning the season from zero with a new playing style and new players requires immediate results, and that securing two solid victories early on is encouraging for the project.

Klaassen also expressed personal delight at Blind’s comeback, calling him a friend and stressing that Blind contributes significantly both on the ball and off it, enhancing the squad’s quality.

Klassen began speaking after the 4-1 victory, emphasizing the importance of the two good wins and the visible upward line the team is showing.

Former player Jan van Halst, in conversation with Klaassen, highlighted Ajax’s attacking approach, noting the high number of players in the final third and the team’s plan to launch immediate attacks after losing possession.

He recalled Sam Van Royen asking whether such a high press was risky, to which van Halst replied that the side had agreed to press high and counter instantly when the ball is lost.

Klaassen pointed to Míchel’s halftime remark that Ajax were too low on the pitch and needed more players positioned higher, stating that this adjustment was the key to the win.

He added that being well placed behind the ball reduces the impact of losing possession, aligning with the coach’s criticism.

The creator of the first Amsterdam goal also disclosed Míchel’s halftime criticism, confirming the tactical nuance that helped Ajax dominate the encounter.