Former Chelsea manager Graham Potter has declined the opportunity to become the new head coach of Ajax, despite being impressed by the project presented to him by the Dutch giants. Potter, who was let go by Chelsea in April 2023, had a variety of offers from both the Premier League and overseas, with Ajax being one of the clubs interested in his services. Ajax, currently led by interim coach John van’t Schip, had hoped Potter would take over next season, but he has turned down their offer.
This decision by Potter is another setback for Ajax, who have struggled since losing their previous coach Erik ten Hag to Manchester United in 2022. Under ten Hag’s leadership, Ajax won three league titles, but have not performed well in his absence. The club has had four different coaches since his departure, with none able to replicate his success. Ten Hag’s own future at Manchester United is uncertain, with rumors linking him to a return to Ajax.
With Manchester United facing a disappointing season, rumors have circulated about Potter potentially taking over from Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford. The club’s part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to admire Potter, adding fuel to the speculation about a possible change in management. If United fail to qualify for Europe next season, it is expected that they may part ways with ten Hag. These uncertainties have raised questions about the future of both clubs and the potential for Potter to take on a new challenge.
Despite the interest from Ajax and Manchester United, Potter has not made his decision about his next coaching role. The debate over where he should go next is ongoing and fans are split on whether he would be a better fit for Ajax or Manchester United. As the football world waits for Potter’s next move, the attention is also on Erik ten Hag’s future at Manchester United and the possibility of a return to Ajax, where he achieved significant success before moving to England.
The Premier League title race and Champions League fixtures continue to unfold for both clubs as the coaching saga plays out behind the scenes. Potter’s rejection of Ajax’s offer has added more intrigue to the situation, with fans and pundits speculating about the reasons behind his decision. As both clubs look to secure their future, the coaching carousel in European football shows no signs of slowing down, with Potter’s next move sure to make headlines in the coming weeks.
