Jordi Cruijff (Amsterdam, February 9, 1974) spent several years in Ajax's youth academy before moving to Spain, where he continued his football education at FC Barcelona. As a professional footballer, he played not only for FC Barcelona but also, among others, for Manchester United. He also made nine appearances for the Dutch national team. After his active playing career, Cruijff held various positions in international football, including that of sporting director at Maccabi Tel Aviv and FC Barcelona. Cruijff will remain affiliated with the Indonesian football association PSSI as an adviser.
Jordi Cruijff: "It is very special to be here and to sign my contract. In the stadium named after my father and at the club that has been important to me since I was young. It goes without saying how much this means to my family and me. From February, I will fully commit myself to Ajax. I do so with a great sense of responsibility and pride. I thank the club management for their trust. Ajax is a unique club with a rich history, and I will do everything I can to add a new successful chapter together."
On behalf of the executive board, CEO Menno Geelen explains the appointment: "After the announced departure of Alex, we went through a thorough selection process. We spoke with several strong candidates, and Jordi emerged as the best. Following a fine international football career, Jordi has further developed himself, among other things, as a director. He knows what is required to perform at the highest level on and off the pitch, and how to help your own youth players progress to the top. With a complete executive board, we can now continue building towards the results Ajax deserves."
On behalf of the Supervisory Board, vice-chairman Dirk Anbeek adds: "We are pleased that Jordi has signed and can start at the beginning of February. Together with the executive board, we have decided that it is best for Ajax that the technical director is also a statutory director, because football is what it is all about for us. Jordi will play an important role for both the short and the long term of the club, and we have every confidence that, in close cooperation with his colleagues, he will bring Ajax new successes."
