Jan Vertonghen, a pivotal figure linking Ajax and Benfica, shared insights ahead of the crucial encounter between the two clubs set to take place at the Johan Cruyff Arena. In a recent interview with Ajax Showtime, the former Belgian international reflected on the current struggles faced by both teams and reminisced about his experiences in Amsterdam and Lisbon.
After retiring at the end of the last season, Vertonghen expressed his sorrow at witnessing Ajax in a challenging phase of their history. The defender, who played for Ajax from 2006 to 2012, highlighted the issues stemming from instability around the club in recent years, which have hampered efforts to build a solid foundation. “Whenever things go a bit wrong, everything falls apart. There is constant pressure from outside that is detrimental,” he noted. Vertonghen acknowledged that the positive results under coach Francesco Farioli were a product of the coach’s ability to “isolate himself from the noise.”
Turning his attention to Benfica, where he played from 2020 to 2022, Vertonghen remarked that his arrival coincided with the challenges brought by the pandemic. Despite this, he holds fond memories of his time at the Estádio da Luz and in Lisbon. He drew comparisons between the two clubs, stating, “Ajax and Benfica are very similar. They are the foremost clubs in their respective countries, have outstanding youth academies, and boast highly demanding supporters.”
As for the upcoming match, Vertonghen anticipated an intense and open contest, underlining the significance of the encounter as the last chance for both teams to vie for advancement in the Champions League. “I expect a game filled with tension and intensity. It is clear that the loser will be out,” he emphasized, urging Ajax to capitalize on their limited opportunities during the match.
