Netherlands: Michel appointed as new Ajax head coach

Europe 02 June 2026 at 05:08

Nouya M'toama

News Editor

Ajax Amsterdam has found its new leading man to rebuild its sporting project. Miguel Ángel Sánchez Muñoz, known as Michel, has signed with the Dutch club until June 2028.

Ajax confirmed on Tuesday the appointment of Michel as head coach, just days after reaching a preliminary agreement with the Spaniard. The former Girona boss succeeds Óscar García, who had been serving as interim coach since the end of the season.

The 50-year-old manager's contract runs until the summer of 2028, sending a strong message from the Amsterdam board about their drive for stability. Some final administrative details still need to be ironed out before the club's official announcement.

The profile of a long-identified coach

Selected by the sporting management led by Jordi Cruijff, Michel had been a target for several months and was viewed as a top priority. His name topped a list that also featured high-profile candidates like Pep Guardiola, Peter Bosz, and Arne Slot, who ultimately proved unattainable.

The Spaniard built a solid reputation through his work at Girona, where he led the club to a historic Champions League qualification in 2024. His tenure was marked by attacking, flexible, and structured football, employing various systems from a 4-2-3-1 to a 3-4-3 formation.

A long-term rebuilding project

In Amsterdam, Michel arrives in the midst of a deep rebuilding phase. Ajax is banking on continuity and an ambitious playing philosophy to reclaim the heights of Dutch and European football. His arrival marks a clear intention to kick-start a new, sustainable cycle within the club.