Ajax Seeks Immediate Reaction Against Fortuna Sittard

Ajax head to Fortuna Sittard looking for an immediate reaction in the VriendenLoterij Eredivisie, and Míchel has underlined that intent with a bold team selection featuring two debutants in the starting XI.

The 3-1 defeat to PSV still lingers, but there is no time for dwelling. Changes arrive all over the pitch.

New look at the back

Marc ter Stegen keeps his place in goal for the clash in Sittard, trusted again as the last line of defence.

In front of him, Anton Gaaei starts on the right of a reshaped back four. Thilo Kehrer is drafted in for Aaron Bouwman, who is still recovering from the heavy challenge by Ruben van Bommel last week. Youri Baas partners Kehrer in central defence, a fresh pairing tasked with tightening things up after the Eindhoven loss. On the left, Caio Henrique starts at full-back, completing a back line that looks very different in both personnel and balance.

Two debutants, one message: standards have to rise.

Amrabat steps in, Klaassen steps aside

The midfield also carries a new feel. After coming off the bench to make his debut against PSV, Sofyan Amrabat is promoted straight into the starting XI. He anchors a trio that also includes Jorthy Mokio and Julian Brandt, a blend of control, work rate, and creativity aimed at dictating the tempo against Danny Buijs’ Fortuna side.

The casualty is a big one. Davy Klaassen drops to the bench, a clear sign that reputations count for less than form and intensity right now.

Berghuis backed, Arokodare leads the line

Out wide, Steven Berghuis is handed another chance to impose himself from the right flank. On the opposite side, Oliver Edvardsen starts on the left, looking to drive at defenders and support the central striker.

Through the middle, Tolu Arokodare leads the line for the visitors from Amsterdam, tasked with finishing the chances this reworked XI is supposed to create.

Ajax have their response loaded on the teamsheet. Now they have to deliver it on the pitch in Sittard.