Mitchell van der Gaag to remain at Man United despite Ajax's interest

The Dutchman was Ajax's assistant manager in 2021-22

Mitchell van der Gaag, the assistant manager of Manchester United is expected to stay, despite the managerial vacancy at his former club Ajax.

Ajax parted ways with head coach Maurice Steijn by mutual consent on Monday after just one win in seven league games. The 36-time Dutch champions are second bottom of the Eredivisie table in the relegation places.

Former United boss Louis van Gaal returned to the club as an advisor earlier this month and is an admirer of Van der Gaag, who was No 2 to Erik ten Hag in Amsterdam before moving to Old Trafford.

However, Ajax are aware Van der Gaag is seen as a crucial figure in Ten Hag’s coaching team at Manchester United and he is expected to remain in post as reported by the Athletic.

Van der Gaag previously coached the Ajax youth side before moving up to work with the first team under Erik ten Hag. He started his managerial career in 2008.

The 52-year-old played as a centre-back during his time and played for the likes of PSV, Al Nassr, Motherwell, Utrecht and a couple of other clubs.

Ajax's Chief executive Jan van Halst said upon Monday’s announcement: “We have worked intensely and professionally together over the last few months. But the sportive successes and the development of the team were lacking.”

The Amsterdam team are without a win in their last eight matches, which is the worst run in the club’s history, despite Steijn spending over £100million since his appointment just over five months ago.

Mitchell van der Gaag's rejection is a big blow for Ajax who were said to be disappointed when he left the club to follow Ten Hag, and their hunt for their fifth manager in 17 months.