‘Nothing short of a miracle’ - Jordan Henderson sends emotional message to departing Ajax manager Francesco Farioli after Eredivisie title agony

Changes are being made in Amsterdam on the back of an agonising end to the 2024-25 campaign. Ajax appeared to be on course to reclaim the Eredivisie title with a few matches of the season remaining, but a dip in form arrived at the worst possible time.

A four-game winless run, that delivered just two points, meant that Ajax headed into the final day requiring favours from elsewhere. They did not arrive, with Henderson’s first goal for the club not enough to see them overhaul PSV at the summit.

After squandering a nine-point lead, Italian coach Farioli has decided to walk away after just one year at the Johan Cruyff Arena. He has faced plenty of uncomfortable questions, with title pain in the Netherlands leaving him in tears, but Henderson has been quick to salute his efforts in a difficult role.

The England international said in a post on Instagram: “I want to thank you for everything you have done for me and this team over the last 11 months. From day one the energy, desire and passion you brought to help this team get back on our feet and fight again was nothing short of a miracle.

“Not everyone from the outside will appreciate or even understand what we all had to go through this season to achieve what we did, but you kept everyone together and wanting to fight for each other right till the very end.

“It was an absolute pleasure to work with you and your staff over the last year and I know this is only the beginning of your journey! I look forward to seeing you standing on the touchline once again showing everyone what a great coach and man you are, I just hope they appreciate and show you the respect you deserve. Thank you and good luck Gaffa!”

Ex-Liverpool captain Henderson still has a year left to run on his contract with Ajax, suggesting that - despite generating transfer talk - he will be back for another title challenge in 2025-26.