Ajax Fans Pay Tribute to Dusan Tadic in Match Against NEC

On Saturday night, Dusan Tadic returned to the Johan Cruijff ArenA to face NEC Nijmegen, and Ajax fans prepared a banner in his honor. At the same time, statements made by Tadic in a recent interview drew criticism from coaches and former NEC players.

Tribute from Ajax fans

When NEC took to the pitch to warm up, a banner was unfurled along one side of the stadium reading “Once Our Captain, Always One Of Us”. The fans chanted Tadic's name, and the forward responded by applauding and posing for photos.

Tadic's career at Ajax

Tadic arrived at Ajax in the summer of 2018 from Southampton. In five seasons, he made 241 appearances, scored 105 goals, and provided 112 assists. He won three Dutch league titles, two Dutch Cups, one Dutch Super Cup, and was the top scorer in the Eredivisie in 2018/19 with 28 goals, in addition to reaching the Champions League semifinals that same year.

Interview that sparked controversy

In an interview with NU.nl, Tadic stated that his brain “works too fast” and that he does not receive the ball during build-up play, describing the situation as a mental “storm”. He also criticized the level of his NEC teammates, saying that it is harder to have worse players around him.

Reaction from Dick Schreuder

NEC coach Dick Schreuder commented on the interview to ESPN, acknowledging Tadic's history at Ajax and stating that he understands part of the comments. Schreuder emphasized that the group remains united, that the players sit together at the table and laugh, and that there are no signs of internal conflict.

Criticism from former coaches and former players

Robert Maaskant, former manager of clubs such as NAC Breda, reacted harshly, telling Tadic to “shut his mouth for a moment”. Vurnon Anita, a former NEC player, also stated that Tadic's words would not be welcomed with open arms and could circulate in the locker room.

With information from Goal.com.