Mylo van der Lans: From Jong Ajax Captain to Potential First-Team Breakthrough
Mylo van der Lans, captain of Jong Ajax, is looking ahead to this Sunday’s “De Klassieker” match. He was substituted during the match against Almere City with a view towards commitments with Ajax 1, as reported by Ajax Showtime. Van der Lans discussed the recent defeat, Jong Ajax’s improving form after the winter break, and his opportunities with the first team in an exclusive interview.
Analyzing the Loss to Almere City
Van der Lans acknowledged a gradual start to the match against Almere City. “In the beginning it was a feeling-out process to see how the match would unfold. After that, we became more dominant, but we quickly fell behind 0-1 from a set piece,” he stated. He pinpointed defensive lapses as a key issue, emphasizing the need for better positioning and quicker reactions. The team struggled to convert possession into clear-cut chances, lacking the necessary depth and success in one-on-one situations.
Despite the 0-2 loss, Van der Lans dismissed any concerns about a dip in morale. He expressed confidence that the team is approaching the international break with a positive mindset, eager to showcase their abilities. He has likewise been called up for the Netherlands U19 squad.
Looking Ahead: ADO Den Haag and “De Klassieker”
Jong Ajax’s next challenge is an away match against ADO Den Haag, a particularly meaningful fixture for Van der Lans. “I come from the Westland, under The Hague, and pass the stadium every day,” he shared.
The team’s form has significantly improved since the winter break, securing seven points from their first three matches. Van der Lans attributes this to a shift in mentality. “I feel we’ve come to realize that it’s all about winning. Development is very significant for a Jong team, but you also have to win, especially at Ajax.” He noted that the team is now more determined, tackling duels with greater intelligence and hunger.
The Influence of the Coaching Staff
Van der Lans highlighted the positive impact of both previous coach Willem Weijs and current coach Paul Nuijten. He credited the Spanish coaching staff with improving the team’s defensive organization, while Nuijten has brought a more attacking style of play.
Potential First-Team Role
Van der Lans was included in the matchday squad for Ajax 1 five times this season and trained with the first team ahead of “De Klassieker,” potentially earning a spot on the bench. He understands the challenges faced by a central defender seeking playing time, acknowledging that attackers often get opportunities to impress when the team is comfortably ahead. He emphasized his readiness to contribute if called upon, stating, “I think I display in training that I can play at that level.”
He identified areas for improvement, focusing on consistency with the ball and increasing his physical strength to better handle opposing strikers. “If I improve those two things, my chance will come,” he concluded.
Developing Young Talent: The Role of Jong Ajax
The Jong Ajax system plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between youth football and the Ajax first team. The emphasis on winning, alongside development, reflects a strategic approach to preparing players for the demands of professional football. Van der Lans’s journey exemplifies this process, showcasing the importance of a strong mentality, tactical adaptability, and continuous self-improvement.
FAQ
Q: What position does Mylo van der Lans play?
A: He is a central defender.
Q: Has Mylo van der Lans made his debut for Ajax 1?
A: No, he has been in the matchday squad five times but has not yet made his debut.
Q: What is Jong Ajax’s recent form like?
A: They have shown improvement after the winter break, earning seven points from their first three matches.
Q: What are Van der Lans’s key areas for development?
A: Consistency with the ball and increased physical strength.
Did you know? Mylo van der Lans is from the Westland region, near The Hague, and frequently passes the ADO Den Haag stadium.
Pro Tip: For aspiring young footballers, Van der Lans’s story highlights the importance of combining technical skill with a strong mental attitude and a willingness to learn from experienced coaches.
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