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Míchel explains the choice for Dolberg as base
Teams 27 September 2026

Míchel explains the choice for Dolberg as base

Trainer Míchel Sánchez explains his choice to start Kasper Dolberg in the match against Excelsior and not Tolu Arokodare, despite Arokodare's striking performance after coming on as a substitute. The striker was not fully fit due to illness.

Míchel explains choice for Dolberg's starting place

According to Vi.

Background

Míchel Sánchez faces the challenge of finding the right balance between experience and potential in his lineups. The recent performances of Dolberg and Arokodare will be crucial for Ajax's future in the Eredivisie, especially now that every match counts in the battle for the top places.

Why this matters

Míchel Sánchez's choice to start Kasper Dolberg instead of Tolu Arokodare has important implications for Ajax in the Eredivisie. With the busy schedules and the need to keep players fit, it is crucial that the coach makes strategic decisions that can influence the team's overall season outlook. The absence of Arokodare in the starting line-up could affect the team's dynamics and match impact in the long term.

Key points

  • Míchel explains choice for Dolberg as base.
  • Trainer Míchel Sánchez explains his choice to start Kasper Dolberg in the match against Excelsior and not Tolu Arokodare, despite Arokodare's striking performance after coming on as a substitute.
  • Míchel explains Dolberg base: 'Tolu was a bit sick'.

After the match between Ajax and Excelsior, questions arose from the public and the media about the attitude of coach Míchel Sánchez. Remarkably, Tolu Arokodare, who caused quite a bit of danger when he came on as a substitute, did not start in the starting line-up. Instead, the trainer chose Kasper Dolberg as the first striker.

Míchel Sánchez provided explanations afterwards: "Tolu was a bit sick," said the trainer. "We did not want to take any risks with his health. That is why we chose Dolberg in the starting line-up. Dolberg also earned the trust through his recent training performances and his experience in major competitions.”

The match against Excelsior turned out to be a tactical challenge for Ajax. There was a lack of momentum, especially in the first half, something that became clearly visible in the Amsterdam midfield. Only when Tolu Arokodare entered the field did there become more of a threat towards Excelsior's goal. The tall striker stood out with his sharp runs and physical strength, with which he put pressure on the defense. However, it did not have a decisive impact on the final score.

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Míchel's choice to start Dolberg was partly inspired by the busy schedule and the need to keep players fit for the upcoming important matches in the Eredivisie and possibly European context. Injuries and minor complaints often determine the match plan, especially at this stage of the season where every point counts in the hunt for a European ticket.

For Ajax fans and followers of the Eredivisie, this situation shows how choices in the starting lineup are often the result of medical considerations and not merely form or performance. Arokodare appears to be on his way back to full fitness and may be able to start again in the next match, depending on his recovery and training performance. Dolberg proved that with his presencethe flush at the point of attack is wide enough for Míchel Sánchez to rotate when necessary.

In view of the further course of this Eredivisie season, injuries and fitness of strikers remain a hot topic in the Ajax selection. The competitive battle between Dolberg and Arokodare will certainly continue in the coming weeks, given their different qualities and the importance of goals in the battle for a European place.

What's happening now

Ajax will have to continue to rely on Dolberg's experience as they prepare for the next matches in the Eredivisie. Arokodare's return to full fitness will also be of great importance, especially as the team focuses on improving their attacking prowess. Míchel Sánchez will have to carefully manage his squad to avoid injuries and optimize the team's performance in the coming league matches.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the reason that Tolu Arokodare did not start in the starting line-up?

Tolu Arokodare was not completely fit and trainer Míchel Sánchez did not want to take any risks with his health.

Who started as striker in the Ajax vs. Excelsior match?

Kasper Dolberg started as striker in the starting line-up against Excelsior.

How did the choice of Dolberg influence the match?

Dolberg's experience and recent training performances led to his starting position, but Ajax had difficulty with punching power in the first half.

What was the impact of the match on the Eredivisie standings?

The match had an impact on the hunt for a European ticket, but specific details about the standings were not stated.

What is the next match for Ajax in the Eredivisie?

The next match for Ajax is not specifically mentioned in the article.

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