Theo Janssen Urges Sofyan Amrabat to Keep Ajax’s Midfield Role Simple
Former Netherlands midfielder Theo Janssen has offered Sofyan Amrabat some pointed advice after assessing the Ajax midfielder’s performances on Rondo, the football discussion programme on Ziggo Sport. Janssen believes the Morocco international brings valuable energy and defensive strength to the team, but should be more selective about his decisions when in possession.
Amrabat’s work rate is not in question. The 30-year-old is known for covering ground, competing for loose balls and helping his side recover possession. For Janssen, however, the midfielder’s desire to contribute can sometimes lead him into situations that do not suit his strongest qualities. His message is that Amrabat can have a greater impact by focusing on what he does best as a holding midfielder.
Janssen’s advice: play to your strengths
“This lad gives everything and works his socks off,” Janssen said. He praised Amrabat’s commitment to the team but argued that the midfielder can occasionally try to do too much. In Janssen’s view, that can leave him making decisions in possession that are better suited to a more creative or technically adventurous player.
The former midfielder pointed to moments when Amrabat has space to carry the ball forward but instead turns back or chooses a sideways pass. Janssen sees those choices as evidence that the Ajax player could show more initiative, while also suggesting that he should avoid taking unnecessary risks when the situation does not favour him.
His criticism was not a call for Amrabat to become a different kind of player. Rather, it was a reminder that a defensive midfielder can help his team without constantly trying to advance the play himself. By winning possession, keeping his position and moving the ball safely to a teammate, Amrabat can provide a platform for Ajax’s more attack-minded players.
Why Amrabat’s contribution goes beyond the statistics
Janssen has also spoken positively about the qualities Amrabat brings to Ajax. His ability to challenge for second balls, support the defence and sprint back during opposition counterattacks can be especially important in a team that wants to control matches. Those contributions may not always appear in goals, assists or headline-making highlights, but they can help determine whether a side keeps its shape and limits danger.
Former defender Khalid Boulahrouz made a similar point while discussing the midfielder’s role. He described Amrabat as a ball-winner whose value is not always reflected in the statistics. Players in that mould can attract criticism for limitations in possession, Boulahrouz suggested, yet their absence often makes a team’s weaknesses more obvious. He compared the situation with former Ajax midfielder Jordan Henderson, another player whose contribution was often debated.
That distinction matters when judging a footballer’s overall performance. A holding midfielder is not necessarily expected to dictate every attack or deliver the final pass. The role can instead involve protecting the defence, closing passing lanes and recovering possession before an opponent can build momentum. If Amrabat performs those duties consistently, Ajax may benefit even when his name is not prominent on the scoresheet.
Ajax still assessing Amrabat after injury
Amrabat’s recent campaign has also been affected by an injury. He returned to action as a substitute in Ajax’s 2-2 away draw with FC Twente, entering the match after an hour as coach Míchel Sánchez looked to adjust his side. A gradual return may help explain why the midfielder is still working to build rhythm and establish his place within Ajax’s setup.
The draw offered a reminder of the fine margins involved in the Eredivisie. Ajax had to manage a demanding away fixture against a competitive Twente side, and midfield balance was central to the contest. A player who can win duels and protect the back line may prove useful in such matches, particularly when the game becomes stretched and both teams look to exploit space in transition.
Amrabat joined Ajax on a free transfer in August after leaving Fenerbahçe. He signed a contract running until mid-2028, giving the club time to integrate him into the squad and assess how his experience can support its ambitions. His arrival added a recognised defensive midfielder to the group, although his best role and level of responsibility remain topics for discussion.
What Janssen’s comments could mean for Ajax
For Ajax, the challenge is to make the most of Amrabat’s strengths while giving him clear expectations in possession. If he is asked to anchor the midfield, he may be most effective when he keeps his positioning disciplined, wins challenges and chooses uncomplicated passes under pressure. That approach could allow teammates with stronger creative instincts to take responsibility for progressing the ball.
There is still room for Amrabat to show initiative. Janssen’s advice does not mean the midfielder should never carry the ball forward or attempt a progressive pass. Instead, the key is to recognise when the opportunity is genuinely available and when a safer option better serves the team. Better decision-making could help him avoid turnovers while preserving the energy and defensive intensity that make him valuable.
That balance will be important as Ajax look ahead to their next Eredivisie fixture against Heerenveen on November 22, 2026. Match predictions will depend on team news, fitness and tactical choices closer to kick-off, but Amrabat’s availability and role could be among the factors to watch. If he is ready to start, Ajax may value his defensive coverage; if he is still rebuilding match sharpness, the coaching staff could continue managing his minutes.
Janssen’s assessment ultimately highlights a broader truth about football: effective midfield play is not always about doing more with the ball. Amrabat can help Ajax most by combining his relentless work rate with disciplined positioning and sensible distribution. If he embraces that balance, the criticism could become a useful guide rather than a verdict—and his less visible strengths may become a more dependable part of Ajax’s midfield identity.
