

After a short spell at Bayer Leverkusen, Erik ten Hag could make a surprise return to Ajax in January. According to De Telegraaf, the Dutch tactician remains open to the possibility.
The Amsterdam team is going through a difficult period under John Heitinga. Arne Slot's former assistant at Liverpool is struggling to win the club's favour, with dismal performances both in the league and in European competition.
The tension surrounding Heitinga has increased after a crushing 4-0 defeat to Marseille in the Champions League. Although the club's management is in no hurry to fire him, growing frustration among fans and a poor start to the season have forced Ajax to look for long-term solutions, and Ten Hag is the leading candidate to turn things around.
Ajax are third in the Eredivisie with 16 points from eight matches. They are 35th in the Champions League, with no chance after two games.