Ajax's Oscar Gloukh Debuts as Number 10 Amid Criticism After Draw with Heerenveen

Oscar Gloukh, the Israeli midfielder for Ajax, made his first start under coach Mitchell as a number 10 in Ajax's 2-2 draw against Heerenveen on August 16, 2026. This match marked Ajax's first game following the sale of star player Mika Hudets. Gloukh played in a 4-2-3-1 formation, taking a more advanced attacking role, and was the team's most forward player for much of the game. He contributed three key passes, one shot on target, and two successful dribbles, ranking among the top performers on the pitch during the first half.

Despite Gloukh's promising start, Ajax lost a two-goal lead, leading to criticism from Dutch commentators. Notably, analyst Arnold Baruchnick highlighted a missed close-range chance by striker Kasper Dolberg following a quality cross from Gloukh, and criticized the team's defensive energy and motivation. Gloukh was substituted in the 65th minute for Julian Brandt and received a 5.5 rating from Dutch outlet VI.

Ajax rested Gloukh in their second qualifying round match against Shelbourne after a commanding 3-1 victory in the first leg. Coach Mitchell admitted the team lacked energy and needed to play more structured football, acknowledging fatigue as a factor in their performance. The draw against Heerenveen underscored ongoing challenges for Ajax despite the new season's start and changes in the squad.