John Heitinga leaves Liverpool to become new Ajax head coach

The 41-year-old former Ajax and Everton defender, who was assistant to Liverpool manager Arne Slot, leaves the Premier League champions after just one year at Anfield.

NEW ROLE: Liverpool have confirmed John Heitinga has left the club to become head coach of Ajax. Pic: Getty Images

Sat, 31 May, 2025 - 12:56

PA Sport

Liverpool have confirmed John Heitinga has left the club to become head coach of Ajax.

The 41-year-old former Ajax and Everton defender, who was assistant to Liverpool manager Arne Slot, leaves the Premier League champions after just one year at Anfield.

The former Netherlands international - who came through the youth ranks at the Dutch giants - takes over from Francesco Farioli after the Italian saw his side squander a nine-point lead in the Eredivise title race to rivals PSV Eindhoven.

"John leaves with our gratitude and appreciation for his role in our 2024-25 Premier League title win," A statement from the English champions read.

The news comes after Pep Lijnders, who was assistant to ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, has reportedly agreed to join Pep Guardiola's backroom staff at Manchester City.