OFFICIAL: Jordi Cruyff Returns To Ajax As New Technical Director

Son of Legend Johan Cruyff Reaches Verbal Agreement to Lead Amsterdam Giants’ Football Operations.

Ajax Amsterdam have taken a significant step towards stability by announcing a verbal agreement with Jordi Cruyff for the role of Technical Director, as confirmed by the club on December 28, 2025.

The 51-year-old son of Ajax legend Johan Cruyff after whom the Johan Cruyff Arena is named will succeed Alex Kroes, who stepped down amid ongoing challenges at the club. Cruyff is expected to start in February 2026, with a proposed contract running until June 30, 2028.

In an official statement, Ajax noted: “Ajax and Jordi Cruijff have reached a verbal agreement regarding the position of Technical Director”

The Supervisory Board also intends to appoint him as a statutory director, subject to approval at an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders.

Currently serving as technical advisor to the Indonesia national team (a role he took in February 2025 alongside Patrick Kluivert), Cruyff brings extensive experience: former sporting director at FC Barcelona (where he helped win La Liga in 2022/23), Maccabi Tel Aviv, and AEK Larnaca.

Talks accelerated after a leaked photo in November showed Cruyff meeting Ajax officials in Barcelona. His deep connection to the club’s philosophy, rooted in his father’s revolutionary ideas makes this a symbolic and strategic hire as Ajax seek to rebuild after a turbulent period.

Welcome back to Amsterdam, Jordi! The Cruyff legacy continues at the Johan Cruyff Arena.