Ajax dropped costly points in the previous round against PEC Zwolle. The match in the Hanzestad ended 0-0. A disappointment, Grim also noted. The coach outlined how the days after the latest dropped points unfolded. "After a match you have a certain feeling, you reflect and you discuss things with the staff and the group," the Ajax coach began his press moment. "The conclusion was that it was a very poor match. We didn’t play well."
The way up
By training well and talking a lot about what can be improved, the way up must be found. "As Ajax we want to win. That is something we owe as a club. That wasn't the case against PEC Zwolle. From several players you can and must expect more. We simply didn’t do it well in Zwolle. But at the moment we prefer to look ahead."
Looking ahead also happens on a weekly basis with Ajax's technical director Jordi Cruijff. "I have a weekly meeting with Jordi. Also about how things are going. Internally it is not an issue whether I will finish the season."
Second place is still open. But all clubs, apart from leaders PSV, are dropping points in the battle for that important position in the table. Grim knows that the crucial second place is within reach of his club."Saturday brings a new chance for a result. We have to win."
Areas for improvement
Grim certainly sees areas for improvement for his group, who are doing everything possible to finish second. "We need to score more goals. And become more dominant, especially in certain phases." The coach sees positive points of reference to prevent new setbacks. Grim paints a picture of an eager squad that works hard every day on improvement. "Ultimately you have to see that reflected in matches. But football is complex, you are dealing with numerous factors. I know that we are working with the group every day to improve important aspects. I work on that with a lot of energy every day."
"We really train very intensively and with great professionalism. If things don't work out on the pitch at times, for example in build-up play, then we will have to make different choices. Together we are working extremely hard to achieve better results."
Away match with FC Groningen
With the away match against FC Groningen, Ajax face what promises to be a tough encounter. "FC Groningen away has proved to be a difficult match for us," Grim said, undoubtedly also referring to the tumultuous away fixture last season. Ajax dropped costly points in Groningen in the closing phase of 2024/2025 during the title race.
Grim predicts an intense new meeting. "Tomorrow will be a match in which many one-against-one duels will be fought across the entire pitch. It will be a match full of energy." Ko Itakura is not yet available. The other Ajax players are available.
Grim referred to the home match against Fortuna Sittard, in which his Ajax side also beat the Limburgers 4-1 "with a lot of energy". The coach hopes his team will show the same energetic display on Saturday and, preferably, achieve a similar result.
