Míchel explains why pressing at Ajax demands more than chasing opponents

Míchel says Ajax must improve their pressing and ball possession ahead of Thursday's Conference League trip to Midtjylland.

former Ajax manager Míchel Sánchez highlighted pressing and possession as key areas for improvement in a pre-match press conference ahead of the club's Conference League fixture against FC Midtjylland on Thursday at 18:45.

The Spanish coach acknowledged that while Ajax have performed well across all competitions this season, they need to continue developing. He explained that effective pressing requires more than simply chasing opponents: players must cover spaces and cut off passing lanes, which demands greater tactical discipline. Míchel praised his squad's attitude and willingness, noting that injury problems have forced many players to accumulate significant minutes in a short period, which may affect their ability to maintain the intense work rate required over 90 minutes.

Míchel called for Ajax to take another step forward in both their pressing and overall play, emphasizing the need for more possession and dominance in the opponent's half. He expressed confidence in his players' progress, saying they are executing better each time and playing good football.