Club: AFC Ajax (commonly called Ajax)

Country: Netherlands

Season referenced: 2016/17 (and surrounding period)

Head coach: Peter Bosz

• Tenure: Peter Bosz was appointed head coach of Ajax in June 2016 and led the first team through the 2016/17 Eredivisie season. He later left for Borussia Dortmund in mid-2017.
• Style: Bosz’s teams were noted for high-pressing, possession-based, attacking football with emphasis on quick passing, wide play and playing out from the back.
• 2016/17 Eredivisie: Ajax finished 2nd in the Eredivisie in 2016/17, behind Feyenoord. The season featured a strong attacking record but defensive inconsistencies at times.
• Domestic cups: Ajax reached the KNVB Cup final in 2016/17 but were runners-up to Vitesse (the final was decided on penalties after a 2–2 draw; Vitesse won the shootout).
• Notable players (around 2016/17):
  • Kasper Dolberg (forward)
  • Davy Klaassen (midfielder; captain that season)
  • David Neres (emerging winger; joined in summer 2017 but developed through 2016–17 youth/reserves)
  • Davinson Sánchez (centre-back)
  • Joel Veltman (defender)
  • Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (striker; returned to Ajax in 2017 off-season)
  • Andre Onana (goalkeeper; began to establish himself in following seasons)
• European competition: Ajax played in the UEFA Europa League in 2016/17 but were eliminated in the Round of 32 by FC Copenhagen on away goals (2–2 aggregate) after an earlier Champions League qualification route.
• Legacy of Bosz at Ajax: Although Bosz did not win the league with Ajax, his attacking philosophy and development of young players were influential; several squad members developed under his tenure and later played key roles in Ajax’s strong Champions League run under Erik ten Hag (2018/19). Bosz’s success at Ajax led to his appointment at Borussia Dortmund in June 2017.

Quick facts:

• Home stadium: Johan Cruijff ArenA (formerly Amsterdam Arena)
• Club colors: Red and white
• Founded: 1900