Ajax endured a disastrous season, finishing fifth in the Eredivisie with a 0-0 draw against Herenveen, forcing them to play a playoff for a Europa Conference League spot. The team had the chance to secure a Europa League position with a win but failed to capitalize. This marks Ajax's worst finish in over two decades, last seen in the 2020-21 season.
The biggest surprise of the season came from NEC Nijmegen, which qualified for the Champions League playoffs after defeating Go Ahead Eagles 2-1. Their qualification was further solidified by Tvente's loss to the PSV Eindhoven, which enabled NEC to overtake the third spot. Tvente finished fourth and will play in the Europa League, while Fortuna Sittard will fight for survival in the Eredivisie. NAC Breda and Heracles Almelo will compete in lower leagues.
This is a total disaster for Ajax! How could they let this happen? NEC Nijmegen's rise is impressive, but Ajax must get their act together or they'll be out of the Champions League for good. What's next for the Dutch giants?