Soccer

Everton and Manchester United on high alert - Frank De Boer leaves Ajax

Over half a decade at the helm, Dutch manager makes way after final day disaster

Ajax’s head coach Frank De Boer observes a training session in Amsterdam last week, in a foot brace after suffering a torn Achilles tendon. Photograph: EPA
Ajax’s head coach Frank De Boer observes a training session in Amsterdam last week, in a foot brace after suffering a torn Achilles tendon. Photograph: EPA
Thu May 12 2016 - 09:23

Ajax coach Frank de Boer is to leave the Dutch side after five and a half years in charge, the club announced on Thursday.

The 45-year-old’s contract runs out next year but after their final day implosion in the Dutch title race Ajax announced they had agreed to part ways after their tour of china is completed.

Ajax went into Sunday's final round of matches level on points with defending champions PSV Eindhoven but with a superior goal difference.

With their opponents, De Graafschap, sitting second from bottom, Ajax were favourites to deliver a fifth title under De Boer but could manage no better than a 1-1 draw, allowing PSV to finish two points clear at the top of the table.

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British media have touted De Boer as a potential replacement for under fire Everton coach Roberto Martinez. While Manchester United may also be in the hunt for a new manager this summer.