Schmidt Rates PSV as the Top Team in Dutch Football, Critiques Ajax

Roger Schmidt, currently the Global Head of Soccer at RB Leipzig and a former PSV coach from 2020 to 2022, shared his insights on the current state of Dutch football. As the two clubs gear up for their Champions League encounter, Schmidt reflected on his time in Eindhoven, where he notably worked with players like Mauro Júnior and Armando Obispo, who remain part of PSV's squad.

PSV's Current Prestige

Speaking on Ziggo Sport, Schmidt expressed his fondness for facing one of his former clubs. His attachment to PSV runs deep; he’s been monitoring their development closely even after leaving. The team has impressively managed to remain competitive, effectively navigating the challenges of Dutch football. “I had a fantastic time there, and I still have good ties with the club. I recognize how challenging it is to win the title in the Netherlands,” he remarked. Winning in this competitive environment isn’t simply about talent; it’s also about strategic management and the ability to nurture young players into fit professionals capable of performing at high levels. In recent years, PSG has shown considerable prowess in player development. They've cultivated a system that heavily relies on youth, which has been both a necessity and a strategy for sustainable success. Given the limitations smaller Dutch clubs face compared to European giants, PSV's ability to maintain its edge speaks volumes about its management and vision.

Ajax's Changing Fortunes

However, Schmidt noted that Ajax is no longer the strong contender it used to be during his coaching days at PSV. The narrative around Ajax used to be one of dominance and aesthetic superiority in Dutch football—qualities they were often admired for. “PSV is currently the strongest club in the Eredivisie. They’ve sold many players but consistently bring in young talent. They’re doing really well right now,” he assessed. Here’s the thing: while Ajax has seen a dip in form, it’s not just their results that matter; it’s also about the identity they’ve lost along the way. Ajax’s financial model often hinges on selling talented players to maintain profitability. Yet, the departure of notable stars—notably to bigger clubs abroad—has impacted their ability to forge chemistry on the field and build a cohesive team. You just can’t expect to keep performing at the top level without continuity, and Ajax seems to be suffering from that lack. In many ways, the rise of PSV represents a critical shift in Dutch football's power dynamics, where it’s not just Ajax anymore leading the charge.

Future Perspectives

After leaving Benfica in 2024, Schmidt has not taken up another coaching role, stating, “I don’t miss being a coach. I enjoyed it for twenty years, but now I’m pleased to be in a different position.” His transition to a management role marks an important phase in his career, moving from tactical discipline on the pitch to broader responsibilities off it. However, his passion for the game remains evident. With his expertise now under the RB Leipzig umbrella, he could influence club strategies in ways he couldn't as just a head coach. The shift away from daily coaching grind can sometimes be rejuvenating for seasoned coaches. They get to view the game from a higher vantage point, analyzing broader trends and nurturing the growth of upcoming talents. But there’s a flip side. For many, that intense connection with players—the adrenaline of match days—gets hard to replace. What this means for you if you're working in this space is that there’s a notable split in coaching styles—the tactical, hands-on approach versus administrative oversight that can inform club futures in different manners.

Implications for Dutch Football's Future

The reflections from Schmidt may seem straightforward at first glance, but they carry significant implications. As PSV flourishes and Ajax struggles, the overall structure of Dutch football could be at a tipping point. Will other clubs like AZ Alkmaar or Feyenoord capitalize on Ajax's misfortunes? And what does it mean for the youth academies that have historically been a cornerstone of Dutch football? If PSV can continue to harness its young talent while maintaining consistency in the league, they could become a formidable force in Europe as well. This could draw in more attention, sponsorships, and a stronger competitive economy for Dutch football overall. If Schmidt's views reflect a broader sentiment among Dutch football’s elite, the landscape is shifting. The next few seasons will be crucial in determining whether PSV’s rise can sustain itself or whether Ajax will find its way back to glory—this seems to hinge on effective management decisions rather than just player performance.