Jordi Cruyff officially appoints new Ajax head coach

The connection between Manchester United and Ajax runs through more than just transfers and shared footballing philosophy.

It also runs through bloodlines.

Jordi Cruyff – son of the legendary Johan Cruyff – is a familiar name to United supporters, having pulled on the famous red shirt during the late 1990s under Sir Alex Ferguson.

Cruyff joined the Red Devils from Barcelona in 1996 and spent four years at Old Trafford, winning the Premier League title as pat of the club’s historic 1998/99 Treble-winning squad.

Although injuries limited his impact, his time in Manchester remains part of United’s modern European story.

Now, decades later, he continues to shape the game from the boardroom.

Ajax have officially confirmed on their website that Jordi Cruyff, in his new role as technical director, has overseen the appointment of Oscar Garcia as the new head coach of Ajax U23 (Jong Ajax).

Garcia has signed a deal running until 30 June 2027 and takes charge with immediate effect.

The Spaniard arrives with extensive coaching experience across Europe.

After beginning his managerial career within Barcelona’s academy structure, Garcia went on to manage clubs including Brighton & Hove Albion, Watford, RB Salzburg, Celta de Vigo and Stade Reims.

Most recently, he was under contract with Mexican side Chivas until March 2025.

Speaking about the appointment, Cruyff explained:

“Oscar and I know each other well. More importantly, I know his football vision and understand his mentality. Ajax U23 will benefit greatly from that.”

For United fans, this appointment is notable not only because of Cruyff’s Old Trafford past, but because Ajax’s youth side remains central to the club’s elite development model.

The Dutch giants have long produced talents that attracts interest from Europe’s biggest clubs – including Manchester United – and strengthening that pathway signals Ajax’s continued commitment to youth progression.

One recent and notable example of an Ajax player coming through the ranks in Amsterdam before joining Manchester United was Donny Van De Beek, who officially left the Old Trafford for Spanish La Liga side Girona in 2024.

Cruyff’s influence in Amsterdam is growing.

And while his playing days at United are long behind him, his connection to the club continues to resonate in moments like this.