Michel Sanchez has explained his decision to bring on Kasper Dolberg instead of Marcos Leonardo in Ajax's 1-5 win against Fortuna Sittard on Saturday night.
Do you agree with Michel Sanchez's decision to bring on Kasper Dolberg instead of Marcos Leonardo?
Ajax enjoyed a successful night away from home on Saturday as they beat Fortuna Sittard 1-5 in Limburg.
It took a while for Ajax to find a breakthrough, but a spectacular finish from Julian Brandt put the visitors ahead after 35 minutes.
In the second half, the hosts found an equaliser through Anthony Descotte. However, after that, Ajax were completely dominant, and Fortuna Sittard were not as well organised defensively as they were in the first half.
Thilo Kehrer restored Ajax's lead with his first goal in an Ajax shirt. Davy Klaassen was brought on as a substitute and made it 1-3. A goal from Kasper Dolberg, who was also brought on as a substitute, followed shortly after. It was the Dane's first goal in the Eredivisie this season.
A header from Youri Baas in stoppage time of the second half made it 1-5 and wrapped up a convincing victory for Michel Sanchez's team.
Michel explains why Dolberg played instead of Leonardo
One talking point after the game was the fact that Dolberg came on instead of Marcos Leonardo. The Brazilian forward has endured a difficult start to his Ajax career and remained an unused substitute on Saturday night.
In his post-match press conference, Michel explained his decision to bring on Dolberg instead of Leonardo.
"Competition among the players is normal. We created this situation because competing in three competitions will be difficult. We will need everyone," Michel explained.
"This match suited Kasper better, and that was my decision. Leonardo is a very good player, and I have faith in him. We have a very good squad, and any player can play.
One day I might make one decision, and the next day another. Ultimately, what matters is that we win."
Leonardo needs patience
Leonardo will do well at Ajax. While he has made an underwhelming start to his time in Amsterdam, he has shown many positive signs which suggest it is only a matter of time before he finds form.
His finishing has been poor, but the fact that he consistently gets into great positions to score goals is a major positive. During his time in Saudi Arabia, he scored 48 goals in 82 games and consistently overperformed his xG (expected goals) in the Saudi Pro League.
The biggest challenge for Leonardo, however, will be earning a spot in the Starting XI after how well Tolu Arokodare has begun the season. The Nigerian striker has already scored five times in all competitions this season and is crucial to a lot of what Ajax do in the attacking phase of the game.
Tolu is creative in the penalty box; he links the play well, wins duels and can score goals. He offers almost everything you would want in a centre-forward. Leonardo will have to work very hard if he wants to displace Tolu in Michel's starting line-up.
