Ajax prepares to host Shelbourne in the third qualifying round of the Conference League on Thursday, August 6, with manager Míchel Sanchez facing immediate selection decisions regarding recent squad additions. While goalkeeper Marc ter Stegen has arrived on loan from FC Barcelona and is fully eligible for the fixture, staff indicators suggest his integration is still ongoing, leaving Maarten Paes in line to start between the posts.
Squad Selection and Defensive Adjustments for Thursday Night
Defensive configuration remains a primary puzzle for Sanchez amid lingering injuries. Although Ko Itakura has returned to the training pitch, Josip Sutalo remains unavailable. On the right flank, Lucas Rosa is projected to edge out Anton Gaaei, whom the club remains open to transferring should a suitable offer arrive. Daley Blind and Aaron Bouwman are slated to pair up centrally, while Caio Henrique looks set to claim the left-back role ahead of Owen Wijndal.
Did you know?
Oscar Gloukh enters this European clash fresh off a standout performance in the previous round against Vojvodina, where the Israeli midfielder netted a decisive hat-trick.
Midfield Stability and Attacking Options
Despite the recent arrival of Julian Brandt, technical staff are reportedly leaning toward maintaining continuity in the central trio, featuring Davy Klaassen, Youri Regeer, and Gloukh. In the attacking third, Mika Godts is expected to start on the left wing. Despite ongoing personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain, technical director Jordi Cruijff has maintained a firm stance on retaining the Belgian standout in Amsterdam. Steven Berghuis will occupy the right side, with Marcos Leonardo spearheading the attack as the central striker.
Predicted Ajax Starting Lineup: Paes; Rosa, Bouwman, Blind, Henrique; Klaassen, Regeer, Gloukh; Berghuis, Leonardo, Godts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Ajax play Shelbourne in the Conference League?
The first leg of the third qualifying round takes place on Thursday evening, August 6.
Is Marc ter Stegen expected to start in goal?
While the loan signing from Barcelona is fully registered and has trained with the squad, reports indicate that Maarten Paes is favored to start the match.
What is the status of Mika Godts?
Although the Belgian winger has reportedly reached a personal agreement with Paris Saint-Germain, technical director Jordi Cruijff has insisted on keeping him at Ajax.
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