Ajax women flag coach Míchel's English shortcomings

Ajax women's captain Sherida Spitse said on Thursday that the club's new head coach, Míchel, still finds English difficult, noting he can only manage a few words in the language, while also discussing the potential loan arrival of goalkeeper Marc ter Stegen to the Amsterdammers. Spitse told the conversation took place in the Oranje Café, where she met Míchel on Thursday. She observed that the 36‑year‑old midfielder described the coach as a "Spanish coach" who can speak some English but is not yet at a high level. She added that he is surrounded by staff who can assist him with the language. She said, "We could also watch the training. It is really a Spanish coach. He can do some English, but not really top. That will come, I think." She believes the coach will eventually conduct sessions in English because not everyone understands Spanish.

\n\nKasper Dolberg is absent through injury as Ajax start their campaign without the Dane. The absence compounds a striking shortage up front after Wout Weghorst’s departure to FC Twente. Ajax manager Míchel is forced to field a makeshift attack against Panathinaikos.

Johnny de Mol reacted, "Honestly I find it just unacceptable. You have so many players internally. You need to convey a vision and playing style, and then you also have the press. The man speaks four words in English. That shocked me a bit." He expressed concern about the coach's limited English affecting communication with players and media. Spitse also briefly discussed the goalkeeper situation, noting that Marc ter Stegen is on the verge of joining Ajax on loan. She described him as a good keeper who brings experience and a good person. She mentioned that he would communicate in Spanish with a Spanish coach.

Ajax caps ter Stegen deal with performance‑linked €3m+ wage

Spitse concluded that the language issue will improve as Míchel receives more support. She added that the potential arrival of ter Stegen could add valuable experience to the squad.