Ajax will face FC Groningen without three key defenders. Coach Oscar García confirmed the absences at the press conference before the match. The duel is worth a place in Conference League.
The Amsterdam team will play this Thursday, at 6:45 pm, at Kras Stadion, home of Volendam. Ajax occupies fifth place and is looking to qualify for the next stage of the playoffs. Groningen appears in ninth place on the table.
Defensores out due to physical problems
The club will not be able to count on Josip Šutalo, Ko Itakura and Takehiro Tomiyasu. The three have had recent relapses and remain out of the plans for the confrontation. García regretted the timing of the losses, confirmed only the day before.
The Spanish coach avoided linking the injuries to Mundo’s Copa call-up. Ele said he prefers not to believe statistics in this sense. Para him, it could just be a coincidence.
- Josip Šutalo is unable to perform
- Ko Itakura continues with physical limitations
- Takehiro Tomiyasu is also out of the game
Ajax’s defense takes a significant hit with these absences. The three athletes had been options in the sector.
Preparação continues to focus on motivation
The squad trained in the last few days at the De Toekomst complex. García led the activities and conveyed confidence to the group. Ele recalled that the chance to compete in European competitions still exists and cannot be missed.
The coach highlighted the privilege of wearing the Ajax shirt. Ele asked players to keep their motivation level high. The objective is to seek victory and advance in the competition.
Ajax needs to overcome Groningen to stay alive in the search for a place in next season’s Conference League. The second leg should take place on a date yet to be confirmed, depending on the result.
Recent Histórico shows balance
The teams have already faced each other this season. Resultados varied, but Ajax usually has the advantage in direct confrontations. Desta instead, the neutral command and the casualties change the scenario.
García took over the main team a few weeks ago. Ele came from Jong Ajax and seeks positive results to consolidate the work. The club is going through a period of reconstruction after fluctuations in the Eredivisie.
Fans are closely following the preparation. The expectation is for a competitive team despite the difficulties in the defensive sector.
What to expect from the clash
The technician kept part of the plans confidential. Ele must opt for adjustments in the defense to make up for the fouls. The midfield and attack continue with more regular options.
Groningen arrives motivated for the playoff. The team seeks to surprise and advance. Ajax, despite being missing, counts on the deep squad to react.
The duel gains extra importance in the European window. Vencer means keeping the dream of playing in a continental tournament alive.