Míchel explains where the key lies for Ajax against 'bogey team' AZ

Míchel says Ajax must press high and control the tempo to break their poor run against AZ, who have won seven of the last 11 meetings.

Ajax face AZ on Saturday in what manager Míchel describes as a serious test for his side. The Amsterdammers have struggled against the Alkmaarders in recent years, winning just once since April 2021 — a 2-0 cup semi-final victory in 2022. Since then, AZ have won seven times and drawn four, establishing themselves as Ajax's bogey team.

Míchel praised AZ's quality, citing their excellent youth academy and tactical consistency. "It's a club that does tremendous work with great continuity in their methods," he said at his Friday press conference. "You see that reflected in their play and how well the players find each other on the pitch."

The Spanish trainer identified pressing as the key to breaking the negative streak. AZ play at a high tempo and create numerical advantages from deep, including from their goalkeeper. Míchel also noted AZ's tactical flexibility, regularly switching formations and deploying five defenders. "Our intention is to stay on their half and maintain full pressure when we lose the ball," he explained.