Ajax Under New Management: Pre-Season Clash Against Rangers
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| Credit: dailyrecord.co.uk |
Following a challenging 2023-24 season, Ajax is gearing up for a fresh start under new management. This Saturday, they continue their pre-season preparations with a friendly match against Rangers. This encounter promises to be an exciting test for both clubs, as they look to build momentum ahead of their respective domestic campaigns.
Ajax's Pre-Season Journey
Ajax's pre-season began under the guidance of their new Italian head coach, Francesco Farioli. The team had a mixed start, with a 1-0 defeat to Eredivisie rivals PEC Zwolle at their De Toekomst training complex. However, they bounced back impressively with a 4-0 victory over Sint-Truiden, featuring goals from Jorrel Hato, Jaydon Banel, Carlos Forbs, and Kenneth Taylor.
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| Francesco Faroli [Onefootball] |
Farioli's appointment came after one of Ajax's most disappointing seasons in recent memory. The club struggled throughout the 2023-24 campaign, ultimately finishing in fifth place, a considerable climb from near the relegation zone. As Farioli seeks to rebuild and rejuvenate the squad, he faces a significant challenge ahead.
Upcoming Challenges for Ajax
The Amsterdam club is preparing for a training camp in Utrecht, where they will face Al-Wasl FC of Dubai and Europa Conference League winners Olympiacos. These matches will serve as crucial tests before their Europa League second qualifying round tie against FK Vojvodina. The friendly against Rangers in Wezep will be an important step in this preparation, providing a benchmark for the team's progress under Farioli.
Rangers' Preparation Under Philippe Clement
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| Phillipe Clement [beinsports] |
Rangers started their pre-season with a goalless draw against Standard Liege in a behind-closed-doors match. This weekend, they face Ajax before taking on Manchester United and Union Berlin in what promises to be a challenging series of friendlies. These matches are crucial for Clement to integrate new signings and establish a cohesive unit ahead of the new season.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
For Ajax, Francesco Farioli may opt for a stronger lineup than in their previous friendly. Key players like Devyne Rensch, Kenneth Taylor, and goalkeeper Diant Ramaj are expected to return to the starting XI. Former England midfielder Jordan Henderson could also feature, providing experience and leadership in the midfield.
Ajax Predicted Starting Lineup:
Ramaj; Rensch, Gooijer, Janse, Hato; Taylor, Henderson, Van den Boomen; Forbs, Akpom, Banel
Rangers are likely to field a mixed squad, with head coach Philippe Clement continuing to assess his options. New signings Connor Barron, Clinton Nsiala, and Jefte got their first minutes in the midweek match against Standard Liege and may feature again. However, long-term absentees Danilo and Zak Lovelace, along with Todd Cantwell, who is set to leave the club, will be unavailable. Liam Kelly, who recently joined from Motherwell, might make his debut after missing the previous game.
Rangers Predicted Starting Lineup:
Butland; Tavernier, Souttar, Balogun, Jefte; Raskin, Diomande; McCausland, Dowell, Matondo; Dessers
Match Prediction
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| Ajax Vs. Rangers[Wajerbop] |
With both teams still working on their match fitness, Ajax's slight advantage in pre-season preparation could give them the edge. Our prediction: Ajax 2-1 Rangers. The Scottish side may struggle to keep up with Ajax's tempo and tactical cohesion at this stage of their preparations, making it likely that the Dutch giants will come out on top in this friendly encounter.
Tags:
Ajax vs. Rangers, Ajax FC, Rangers FC, Pre-season match
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