Ajax mist Edvardsen in Friesland; vraagtekens achter Sutalo, Baas en Dolberg – Ajax Showtime

Ajax enters its final match of the Eredivisie season against sc Heerenveen on Sunday, May 17, 2026, facing significant roster uncertainty and high stakes regarding European qualification. The match is scheduled to kick off at 14:30 at the Abe Lenstra Stadion.

Trainer Óscar García has confirmed that Ajax will be without Oliver Edvardsen for the fixture in Friesland. Edvardsen is sidelined with an injury and is officially unavailable for the squad’s trip to the Abe Lenstra Stadion.

Beyond the confirmed absence of Edvardsen, García noted that several other key players remain doubtful. The coach highlighted concerns regarding the fitness and availability of Youri Baas, Kasper Dolberg, and Sutalo.

Addressing the squad’s condition, García stated: Youri Baas was sick. Kasper Dolberg had a problem with his Achilles tendon. Sutalo also had problems. We have some doubts. The player who certainly cannot play is Edvardsen.

The result of the match carries heavy implications for Ajax’s placement in the Eredivisie standings and their subsequent path into European competitions for the coming summer.

Ajax currently occupies fifth place in the league. A finish in fifth would force the club into the play-offs for a ticket to the second qualifying round of the Conference League. Under the current standings, a fifth-place finish would result in a play-off match against the ninth-place team, which is currently FC Groningen.

However, the club is aiming for a higher finish to avoid the play-off round entirely. A fourth-place finish would grant Ajax direct entry into the second qualifying round of the Europa League. Even more favorable is the possibility of climbing to third place, which would allow the Amsterdammers to enter the third qualifying round of the Champions League.

The potential for a fifth-place finish also presents a logistical challenge for the club. Because the Johan Cruijff ArenA has previously scheduled concerts for British singer Harry Styles, the stadium will be unavailable for any potential play-off matches.

Should Ajax be required to play in the Conference League play-offs, the club will be forced to move the fixture to the Kras Stadion, the home ground of FC Volendam.

Despite the injury concerns and the pressure of the standings, García indicated that there remains confidence within the Ajax squad regarding a positive conclusion to the season.

The challenges are not limited to the visiting side. Sc Heerenveen also faces uncertainty regarding its own lineup for the season finale. Reports indicate that both Vasilios Zagaritis and Maxence Rivera are considered doubts for the clash with Ajax.

Ajax players conducted their final preparations at sport complex de Toekomst four days prior to the away fixture to prepare for the Sunday encounter.