paroolSep 26, 2026, 13:31

Ajax spent record 76.2 million on player salaries in disappointing season

Ajax spent a record 76.2 million euros on player salaries during the 2025/26 season, despite suffering from poor sporting results and an early exit from the Champions League. The high costs were primarily tied to contractual clauses triggered by European qualification, leading the club to focus on future cost-cutting measures and transfer profits to stabilize its finances.

Ajax has recorded its highest-ever expenditure on player salaries, reaching 76.2 million euros for the 2025/26 season. Despite this significant investment, the club experienced a disappointing sporting season, finishing fifth in the league and exiting the Champions League early. The record costs were largely driven by pre-existing contractual clauses that triggered salary increases following the club's qualification for the Champions League the previous year, complicating efforts by management to implement a new salary cap. In addition to player wages, the club spent 18.4 million euros on technical and medical staff due to multiple coaching changes.

Financial reports show the club generated a modest profit of 2 million euros, aided by major player sales including Mika Godts to Paris Saint-Germain. However, merchandise revenue dropped from 33 million to 26.1 million euros. General Director Menno Geelen notably declined a 125,000 euro bonus this year. As Ajax enters a season without Champions League revenue, the club is prioritizing strict cost control measures while monitoring the financial impact of new player arrivals.

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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