Ajax manager Francesco Farioli, a philosophy major who is now 36 years old, beamed at the performance. Though it finished runners-up to Ajax in the Eredivisie, his pride is unshaken. Ajax were running away with the league, nine points clear at the top with just five matches left to play. A stunning late letdown ceded the crown to rivals PSV on an apocalyptic final day. Farioli signed with Ajax last June and has two years remaining on his contract. Once the season concluded, he really wore his sensitive soul on his sleeve.
In a post-match interview that was tender and emotional—filled with sharp breaths and pauses to compose himself—Farioli continued to earn his quality coach award. He recognized the obstacles his team had to overcome this season and praised PSV for winning the Eredivisie title.
“They definitely deserved to be where we are, where they are — we tried our best to compete and we gave everything that was in our capabilities,” – Francesco Farioli
Farioli assumed control of Ajax this summer after they finished fifth last season. His proven leadership has inspired the young team, culminating in an impressive second-place finish. The sudden conclusion to an encouraging campaign had him at odds with himself.
“It’s a really hard lesson to learn and it is what it is. I don’t have any type of regrets,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to the players and staff throughout the season.
Farioli noted that just eleven months ago, during his first press conference, he could not have imagined reaching the final game of the season in contention against a team that was previously 30 points ahead. From a broader perspective, he said, that tiny uptick isn’t indicative of the overall success of the season, either.
“If we watch with a cold mind, it’s been a great season,” – Francesco Farioli
Looking past the heartbreak of giving up their advantage, Farioli wanted to reiterate that he felt his players left it all out on the field. In a highly emotional moment, he opened up about the way he feels a void after challenging his players as far as they can be challenged.
“I felt with all the people with me, the staff and players, there is nothing left that we could give. Today I feel the tank is empty. I asked the players to leave everything on the pitch. We tried everything and sometimes everything is not enough,” – Francesco Farioli
As rumors continue to circulate about possible job offers for Farioli in Serie A, he is resolutely committed to his current job. He refused to be drawn on his long-term future at Ajax. Rather, he underlined that now is the time to consider how far his team has come, not decide what’s next.
Farioli’s side put an end to their winless run with a comprehensive 2-0 win against FC Twente in their last match of the season. This victory provided a bittersweet conclusion to their campaign.
“Today is about this group of players. There will be no discussion about anything taking over,” – Francesco Farioli
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