But the fact that Ajax is not yet working on another goalkeeper indicates to me that Ajax still has hope that Ter Stegen will come," said Verweij.
Despite the ongoing negotiation, FC Barcelona included Ter Stegen in their squad for a training camp in England on July 27, 2026, where the team is scheduled to play a friendly match against Birmingham City alongside midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who was included despite a previous injury.
Ter Stegen subsequently posted photos on social media showing his participation in the English training sessions alongside teammate Raphinha.
Tactical Insights Under Michel
Meanwhile, Ajax reporter Verweij analyzed the club's current tactical setup under manager Michel following a 2-1 friendly victory against Burnley.
"In the second half, you could see Michel's idea very well. That is the way Ajax is supposed to play football: fun, attacking football with young, self-trained players.
The idea behind Michel's game is already being embraced now, and that is nice to see," said Verweij.
Verweij noted that young player Abdellah Ouazane stood out during the match, though physical demands from late training sessions prevented him from playing the full 90 minutes.
"For this style of play, a lot is required of the players, so it is not that strange that a boy of just seventeen still has trouble completing the ninety minutes.
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At one point I got someone on the line at Ajax, it was 6:30 PM in the evening, and then Ajax was still training," said Verweij.
