Ajax director Marc Overmars has left his post at the club after it was revealed that he sent inappropriate messages to female workers. The former Netherlands international has been a director at Ajax since 2012 and spent a decade with the club.
Professionally, he has helped Ajax reach massive heights during his time in charge. He helped assemble the squad that progressed to the semifinals of the Champions League in 2018/19. Members of that team were then sold for a huge amount of money.
“Director of Football Affairs Marc Overmars will leave Ajax with immediate effect,” read Ajax’s statement.
“He made this decision after discussions in recent days with the Supervisory Board and CEO Edwin van der Sar and communicated his intentions to them.
“A series of inappropriate messages sent to several female colleagues over an extended period of time underlies his decision to leave the club.”
Marc Overmars apologises for his behaviour as he quits role at Ajax
“I am ashamed,” he said.
“Last week I was confronted with reports about my behaviour. And how this has come across to others. Unfortunately, I didn’t realise that I was crossing the line with this, but that was made clear to me in recent days.
“I suddenly felt enormous pressure. I apologise. Certainly, for someone in my position, this behaviour is unacceptable. I now see that too.
“But it is too late. I see no other option but to leave Ajax. This also has a major impact on my private situation. That is why I ask everyone to leave me and my family alone.”
Ajax are currently at the top of the Eredivisie and have progressed to the last 16 of the Champions League after winning all six of their group stage games.
