Ajax Amsterdam is set to name Spaniard Miguel Angel Sanchez Munoz, known as Michel, as their new head coach on a two-year deal expected to be signed in early June 2026 [1, 2]. The 50-year-old will take over from interim coach Oscar Garcia, who managed the team during the final stretch of their turbulent 2025-2026 season [1, 2].
Michel arrives from Girona, where he led the club to qualify for the 2024 Champions League but was unable to prevent their relegation from La Liga in the 2025-2026 campaign [1, 2]. Despite Girona's drop, Ajax officials have reportedly chosen Michel to revamp the team following its below-par domestic performance.
Ajax finished fifth in the Eredivisie in May 2026, securing a spot in the UEFA Conference League through the playoffs but falling short of their usual top-tier standing [1, 2]. Their season was marked by instability, with John Heitinga starting as head coach before being replaced by Fred Grim on an interim basis and then Oscar Garcia taking over for the final phase [1, 2].
The club plans to begin preseason training on June 22, 2026, with Michel expected to lead preparations once his contract is finalized [1, 2]. Ajax will kick off their European campaign in the second qualifying round of the Conference League on July 23, 2026 [1, 2].
As of June 2, 2026, Michel's appointment has not been officially confirmed, but reports indicate the deal is imminent [1, 2]. The club aims to stabilize performance under fresh leadership as they prepare for the upcoming season.