Waalwijk vs Jong AZ - Friendlies Clubs

When Waalwijk and Jong AZ clash at the home ground on July 4, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a Friendlies Clubs fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. Jorge Salinas is of interest to Manchester United(Image: 2024 Soccrates Images B.V.) United are one of several Premier League clubs weighing up whether to meet Bologna’s €25m (£21.7m) valuation for Jhon Lucumi, according to Corriere di Bologna.

Both Waalwijk and Jong AZ will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Friendlies Clubs. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. Jong AZ will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. In terms of net spend, Liverpool topped the table with £219.4m, followed by Ipswich (£190.7m), Spurs (£176m) and Hull (£160.5m).

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Waalwijk favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Jong AZ are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. There is interest in adding another forward player who can play in one of those wide No 10 roles behind the striker in the 3-4-2-1 formation that Sage is expected to continue with at Selhurst Park.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Mbeumo and Amad have the right flank covered, while United really need an out-and-out centre-forward to replace Zirkzee, if he leaves.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Friendlies Clubs picture. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.