Ajax fans have been waiting for Carel Eiting to become a regular in the Amsterdammers midfield and finally, this season may be the year the youngster makes his breakthrough.
- By Michael Bell
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Eiting joined Ajax’s academy at the age of six and has been a top prospect since breaking into the U19’s at the age of 16. He was a big part of Ajax’s run to the UEFA Youth League quarter-finals in 2017 and made his professional debut the same year for Jong Ajax in the Eerste Divisie.
A first-team debut finally came in October 2016 as a substitute in a KNVB Cup win over Kozakken Boys and he was expected to be a first-team regular last season. However, Eiting had to settle for only six appearances as he remained a regular with Jong Ajax. In the second division, Eiting was exceptional contributing 11 assists and four goals in 18 appearances as Jong Ajax lifted the title.
Eiting, who has made his debut for Netherlands U21’s, is finally set to make his breakthrough into the Ajax first team this season and started both legs of Ajax’s Champions League playoff win over Sturm Graz. The midfielder gained rave reviews for his performances.
Style of Play
Eiting is a controlling midfielder, who looks to pick up possession in front of the defence and dictate play with his exceptional vision and passing ability.
He is a strong tackler who reads the game well at the back and also loves to dribble forward and take shots at goal with a powerful right foot. Eiting showed against Sturm Graz that he can manoeuvre the ball in tight spaces and keep the ball under pressure.
He is also a threat from dead ball situations with excellent delivery.
What to expect from Eiting this season
Ajax’s midfield is packed full of talent with Donny van de Beek and Frenkie de Jong already set to star in the Johan Cruijff ArenA this season, and the club’s fans would love nothing more than Eiting also getting his chance in front of the defence.
The 20-year-old has been held back over the last few years but Erik ten Hag can no longer ignore the exceptional talent, who has clearly outgrown the Eerste Divisie. Ten Hag has already shown confidence by starting Eiting in the Champions League and he should make a big impact in the Eredivisie.
Eiting could also slot into the Netherlands national team midfield which has been crying out for a new DM for years.
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