Published: 16:42, 6 November 2025 | Updated: 16:42, 6 November 2025

Former Liverpool assistant coach Johnny Heitinga has been sacked as Ajax head coach.

Heitinga, 41, was relieved of his managerial duties by the Dutch club after Wednesday's 3-0 home defeat to Galatasaray in the Champions League.

It was their fourth defeat in Europe this season, leaving them bottom of the league phase, having failed to pick up a single point.

A club statement from Ajax read: 'Ajax has suspended John Heitinga with immediate effect. The head coach's contract was due to run until June 30, 2027, but will now be terminated.

'The same applies to assistant coach Marcel Keizer. Ajax is looking for a new head coach; in the meantime, Fred Grim will take over Heitinga's duties.'

Heitinga was appointed by Ajax in May, following the Dutchman's impressive stint serving as Arne Slot's No 2 at Liverpool throughout their Premier League-winning campaign.

Johnny Heitinga has been sacked as Ajax head coach after a 3-0 defeat to Galatasaray

Heitinga was part of Arne Slot's...