In a recent interview, Sporting Lisbon manager Rúben Amorim highlighted the notable achievements of Erik ten Hag during his tenure at Ajax, describing his work as creating the “best team outside the five top leagues”. Amorim’s praise comes amidst his own success in Portugal, where he is eager to transcend local achievements and make a significant mark in European football.
Erik ten Hag’s Ajax Era: A Benchmark for Success
Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Ajax from 2017 to 2022 was marked by rejuvenation and ascension to becoming one of Europe’s most exciting teams. Under his leadership, Ajax reached the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League in the 2018–19 season, captivating spectators with their fearless and attractive brand of football. The team’s success in the Eredivisie was underscored by a blend of youth talent and experienced players, drawing admiration from football circles worldwide.
Revolution in Amsterdam
Ten Hag’s strategy revolved around high pressing, quick ball recovery, and tactical versatility. His ability to tap into the potential of young talents like Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, and Donny van de Beek earned him accolades, forming a template of success for clubs outside Europe’s traditional powerhouses.
Amorim’s Inspiration and Confidence
Observing ten Hag’s accomplishments at Ajax, Amorim expressed his admiration and reflected on the need for broader impact beyond domestic achievements. He emphasised that his confidence does not merely stem from victories with Sporting Lisbon but from his long-term vision and game philosophy.
Amorim has similarly built a reputation for fostering young talent and implementing a progressive style of play at Sporting. His efforts have led to the club winning the Primeira Liga title and making significant strides in European competitions.
In his remarks, Amorim stated, “My confidence does not come from just winning at Sporting. My idea has to go over, more than that. With that, I am confident we will achieve something.”
The Path Forward: Merging Styles and Achievements
Rúben Amorim is charting a path that seeks to bridge the gap between local dominance and continental recognition. Inspired by ten Hag, Amorim aims to continue developing a squad versatile enough to challenge consistently in European tournaments.
At Sporting, he has nurtured promising talents like Pedro Gonçalves and Nuno Mendes, drawing parallels to ten Hag’s work at Ajax. The manager’s focus remains on integrating new dynamics that will enable Sporting to compete against the best in Europe effectively.
Legacy and Lessons
The legacy of Erik ten Hag at Ajax remains influential, illustrating how profound changes and tactical innovations can elevate a club’s stature on the European stage. Meanwhile, Amorim’s ambitions reflect a growing trend among managers outside the top five leagues to emulate such success and challenge the football elite.
As Sporting and Amorim strive to reach new heights, they echo the broader narrative of clubs desiring to redefine their status in Europe, inspired by Ajax’s landmark achievements under ten Hag.
