Steven Berghuis: 'Last season was a coin flip' - Ajax has completely changed under Míchel Sánchez

Steven Berghuis, the experienced Dutch player, has made frank comments about the changes at Ajax since coach Míchel Sánchez took over the hot seat at the start of the season. These statements were made through Ajax Amsterdam's official media channels. According to Berghuis, the difference between Míchel Sánchez and his predecessors is noticeable to anyone following Ajax. Compared to John Heitinga, Fred Grim, and Óscar García — the three coaches Ajax sacked or replaced last season — the Spanish coach brings clear tactical direction and specific plans for each match. This is something Ajax lacked throughout a turbulent season. Berghuis did not hide his disappointment when recalling that difficult period. He said: "Last season, sometimes I felt before each match that it was a coin flip. You really didn't know what would happen." This remark reflects the chaotic atmosphere in Amsterdam for months, as the 33-time Eredivisie champions continuously sacked coaches without finding a solution. That instability left deep consequences in the dressing room. Berghuis, one of Ajax's key players, said he was ready for calm and clarity. Under Míchel Sánchez, he feels that has arrived. "Now we no longer depend on luck. We know in advance that: if we execute this plan correctly, Ajax will win. Then we will meet the fans' expectations," Berghuis emphasized. However, the title target doesn't seem to be on his mind. While sporting director Jordi Cruyff repeatedly insists Ajax must strive for the championship, Berghuis sees it differently. He stated: "Whether you win a trophy or not is not the most important thing. What matters is being competitive and feeling that you're the better side than your opponents, regardless of the result. Ajax fans need to be proud of the team, and we're not dependent on day-to-day form." On a personal level, Berghuis's future this season remains unclear. In the season opener against Telstar, he scored once and provided two assists, showing consistent form. However, Ajax signed Viktor Tsygankov at the end of the transfer window, creating serious competition for his position in attack. Tsygankov's arrival has intensified the competition at Ajax. The Ukrainian player is regarded as a quality signing, giving Míchel Sánchez more options in building the attacking play. At 33 years old, whether Berghuis can maintain his starting spot or must fiercely compete with the new signing remains a major question mark. Nevertheless, Berghuis himself shows he is not intimidated by the challenge. With the tactical clarity Míchel Sánchez brings, Ajax is gradually regaining its identity as a major club in the Netherlands and Europe. The most important thing now is not the trophy, but rebuilding trust — from within the team to the fans who witnessed a disappointing season.