### John Heitinga Returns to Ajax as Head Coach

John Heitinga, former assistant manager at Liverpool, has undertaken a new role as head coach of Ajax. The 41-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the Dutch club, which will see him lead the Eredivisie side until at least the summer of 2027.

Heitinga previously served as Ajax's interim head coach for the latter part of the 2022-23 season after Alfred Schreuder was dismissed. During his interim tenure, Heitinga led the team to an impressive 14 victories out of 22 matches. His successful stint has now earned him a permanent position with his home club.

Upon his appointment, Heitinga expressed his enthusiasm for the new opportunity. He said, "I am incredibly excited to start. The last years in England have done me a lot of good. I've been able to develop further alongside David Moyes and Arne Slot, while also getting a behind-the-scenes look at two major clubs. I'm ready to continue as a head coach and I'm honoured to be given that opportunity at Ajax."

Heitinga joined Liverpool's coaching staff last summer, following a similar role at West Ham United under David Moyes during the previous season. He played a significant part in Liverpool's journey to clinching the Premier League title. Notably, he also managed Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Newcastle United in February when both Arne Slot and assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff were suspended.

Heitinga will take over from Francesco Farioli, under whose guidance Ajax narrowly missed out on the Eredivisie title to PSV Eindhoven this season. Meanwhile, Liverpool has not yet secured a replacement for Heitinga, though the search for a new assistant coach is already in progress.

Ajax welcomed Heitinga back to the club with a warm message: "Welcome home, John Heitinga! ❌❌❌" tweeted AFC Ajax on May 31, 2025.