Ajax have parted ways with Frank de Boer just days after confirmation of his interest in taking over as manager at Everton this summer.
De Boer was in charge of Ajax for six years and won four Dutch league titles in that time, cementing himself as one of the hottest properties in the managerial world.
The Dutchman has been linked several times with moves to the Premier League with Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and even Newcastle United. It seems a move to England may well come to fruition soon enough, too, after his agent admitted that De Boer would be keen on joining Everton, who reports suggests may sack Roberto Martinez at the end of the season.
“He would love to join a club like Everton or Valencia,” Guido Albers, De Boer’s agent, told NOS earlier this week.
“It’s all about the right philosophy and how they play football. That is what Frank is looking for.
“I have told Ajax there is no other club and I have not held discussions with anyone.”
That move may be a step closer too after Ajax this morning confirmed that De Boer had left the club after resigning, following their final-day heartbreak in the league over the weekend.
De Boer said in a statement: “I had a fantastic time here. First as a player and the past decade as a trainer. Ajax then gave me the chance in the first team and I’m grateful to the club.
“After winning four league titles in succession the 2014-2015 season was a disappointment. We wanted to rectify last season, we have done everything. But it is not become what we all hoped and expected.
“I began to realize more that it was time for something else. That is better for me and I think also for Ajax. What I will do, I do not know yet. A year without a club is also an option, I’ll see what comes my way. I cherish above all the beautiful memories, by winning the 30th league title as absolute highlight. We have many talents to the opportunities and experienced their breakthrough. I’m sure that will happen in the coming years. As it should be with Ajax.
“Wherever I am, I will continue to follow closely. Ajax is my club and always will be. ”
De Boer won four Eredivisie titles and the Johan Cruyff Shield on one occasion as manager with Ajax, who were his first step into management following a coaching role with the national side and leading the club’s youth team.
Ajax lost the title on the final day of the season to PSV after they could only muster a 1-1 draw with De Graafschap while their rivals beat Zwolle 3-1 to leapfrog them at the top.
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