Heerenveen vs Ajax - Eredivisie

The history between Heerenveen and Ajax lends this Eredivisie fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on May 17, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. He is said to have been described as 'highly compatible with United’s press-heavy, fast-transition system.' United and Arsenal are set to face competition from AC Milan and FC Porto.

A glance at the Eredivisie table tells the story: Heerenveen in 8th and Ajax in 3rd, with positions to defend and places to climb. The hosts are badly in need of a turnaround, with DLDLD in their last five and a win rate of just 16.67% highlighting their struggles. Ajax are brimming with belief on the road, their WWLWD run reflecting a season win rate of 66.67%. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Heerenveen average 1.17 per game to Ajax's 3.17, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. Carrick spoke to the media before his captain was seen limping, but did explain why he didn't take him off despite the commanding position his team were in.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Heerenveen and Ajax have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. They were slightly found out against Amorim's Milan in pre-season, with the press not quite sharp enough - the fourth goal, in particular, came from just one ball over a high-lined defence.

Individual moments of quality could tip the balance. Both sides possess players capable of producing something out of nothing, and a single flash of brilliance may be all that separates them. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Carlos Baleba looks to be staying with Brighton(Image: PA) Manchester United are unlikely to pursue Carlos Baleba any further this summer as a result of the Brighton midfielder picking up an ankle ligament injury.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. Given the balance of the numbers, Ajax look capable of springing a surprise on the road — a 1-3 away victory is a distinct possibility. With positions in the Eredivisie table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign through injury - but it is not likely to impact the Reds' transfer plans.