Ajax want 'fresh blood' after crashing out of KNVB Cup | OneFootball

Ajax crashed out of the KNVB Cup on Tuesday after falling 2-0 to AZ Alkmaar in the Round of 16, leaving manager Francesco Farioli wishing for some signings in the January transfer window.

After the Dutch giants were eliminated, the 35-year-old admitted his club needs "fresh blood" in attack looking ahead to the rest of 2024/25.

"Of course this hurts, because it was a clear goal to get as far as possible in the cup," said Farioli.

"In the eighty metres between the two penalty areas, we played quite OK, but apart from that we didn't really play the game we wanted: both offensively and defensively. The form is okay, but not the best form of the season.

"To enter that battle, certainly. A bit of fresh blood would definitely help to change certain dynamics.

"But it is also important to continue working with our players, who have done so well so far. My focus is on the players under contract with Ajax."

And while the club may be looking for new talent to come in and help them find their scoring touch, defender Devyne Rensch could exit. The 21-year-old is heavily linked with a move to Roma, but Farioli hopes he'll stay.

"I would love it if Devyne stays with us," Farioli replied when asked. "Whether he actually stays, I don't know. Devyne is our player and he is doing well, again tonight.

"I really don't know if it was his last game, you know our situation. But I absolutely want him to stay. I hope he doesn't leave, let's close the plane!"

Ajax will continue their hunt for the 2024/25 Eredivisie title and currently sit second, four points behind leaders PSV Eindhoven.

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