Ajax Amsterdam is synonymous with total football, a rich tradition of youth development, and an illustrious history filled with domestic and European glory. Over the years, some of the game’s greatest players have graced the pitch at the Johan Cruyff Arena, leaving behind legacies that have shaped both the club and the sport itself. In this article, we pay tribute to ten players who have cemented their status as Ajax legends.
Johan Cruyff
Position: Forward/Midfielder
Career: 1964–1973, 1981–1983
Achievements: Johan Cruyff is not just one of the legends of Ajax but of world football. During his time at Ajax, he won eight Eredivisie titles and three consecutive European Cups (1971, 1972, 1973). His vision, dribbling, and tactical awareness made him the face of “Total Football,” a philosophy that transformed the game.
Iconic Moments: Cruyff’s role in the European Cup victories defined an era. His elegance on the ball and ability to dictate the pace of matches earned him three Ballon d’Or awards. One memorable moment was his famous “Cruyff Turn,” which left defenders spinning and became an iconic part of football history.
Legacy: Cruyff’s influence at Ajax transcends his playing days. He revolutionized football as a coach, implementing his philosophy at both Ajax and Barcelona. The Johan Cruyff Arena stands as a testament to his impact, and his teachings continue to shape modern football.
Other Clubs: Cruyff also played for Barcelona, where he became a club legend, and ended his playing career with spells at Levante and Feyenoord.
Read more about Johan Cruyff at Ajax.
Marco van Basten
Position: Striker
Career: 1981–1987
Achievements: Van Basten was a prolific striker with Ajax, scoring 128 goals in 133 appearances and winning three Eredivisie titles and a Cup Winners’ Cup. His exceptional finishing ability, elegance, and intelligence made him one of the most feared forwards in Europe.
Iconic Moments: One of Van Basten’s defining moments came in the 1986 Cup Winners’ Cup final, where his goal secured victory for Ajax. His ability to score from seemingly impossible angles and his composure in front of goal were hallmarks of his game.
Legacy: Van Basten’s greatness was only amplified by his success with AC Milan and the Dutch national team, but his years at Ajax laid the foundation for his storied career. Despite an injury-shortened career, he remains one of football’s most celebrated strikers.
Other Clubs: His illustrious career continued at AC Milan, where he won multiple Serie A titles and three Ballon d’Or awards.
Frank Rijkaard
Position: Defender/Midfielder
Career: 1980–1987, 1993–1995
Achievements: Rijkaard was the epitome of versatility, excelling as both a commanding defender and a composed midfielder. He won five Eredivisie titles and the 1995 Champions League during his time at Ajax. His defensive solidity and ability to dictate play from deep made him a key figure in multiple successful Ajax sides.
Iconic Moments: Rijkaard’s return to Ajax in the 1990s was crowned with the 1995 Champions League triumph, where his leadership and experience were crucial. His role in guiding a young, talented squad to European glory solidified his status as one of the Ajax legends.
Legacy: Rijkaard’s influence extended beyond his playing career. He went on to become a successful coach, leading Barcelona to Champions League success. His calm demeanor and football intelligence remain an inspiration for future generations.
Other Clubs: Rijkaard also played for Sporting CP and AC Milan, where he was part of the formidable Dutch trio alongside Van Basten and Ruud Gullit.
Dennis Bergkamp
Position: Forward/Attacking Midfielder
Career: 1986–1993
Achievements: Bergkamp’s technical ability and football IQ were evident from a young age at Ajax. He scored over 100 goals for the club, winning the Eredivisie, a UEFA Cup, and a KNVB Cup. His grace on the ball and knack for scoring beautiful goals made him a fan favorite and one of the Ajax Legends.
Iconic Moments: One unforgettable moment was his goal against Vitesse in 1993, a stunning display of control and composure. Bergkamp’s vision and creativity laid the groundwork for his move to bigger stages.
Legacy: Bergkamp’s influence is felt not only at Ajax but also at Arsenal, where he became a club icon. His work as a coach at Ajax has also contributed to developing the next generation of talent, further embedding his legacy.
Other Clubs: Bergkamp’s career flourished at Inter Milan and Arsenal, where he became one of the most revered players in Premier League history.
Edwin van der Sar
Position: Goalkeeper
Career: 1990–1999
Achievements: Van der Sar was the backbone of Ajax’s defense throughout the 1990s, winning four Eredivisie titles, a Champions League, and a UEFA Cup. His exceptional shot-stopping ability, composure, and command of the box made him one of the finest goalkeepers in Europe.
Iconic Moments: His performance in the 1995 Champions League final, where he kept a clean sheet against AC Milan, was a career-defining moment. His calmness under pressure and distribution skills were ahead of his time.
Legacy: Van der Sar’s career only grew more illustrious after Ajax, but his roots in Amsterdam remain significant. As the former CEO of Ajax, he continued to shape the club’s future, ensuring that Ajax remained a powerhouse in European football.
Other Clubs: Van der Sar enjoyed successful spells at Juventus, Fulham, and Manchester United, where he won multiple Premier League titles and another Champions League trophy.
Jari Litmanen
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Career: 1992–1999, 2002–2004
Achievements: Litmanen was the heartbeat of Ajax’s attack during their dominant run in the 1990s. The Finnish playmaker’s vision, movement, and finishing ability made him an irreplaceable part of the team that won the Champions League in 1995. He scored over 130 goals for Ajax and was known for his incredible football IQ, which makes him one of the Ajax legends.
Iconic Moments: Litmanen’s two-goal performance against Bayern Munich in the 1995 Champions League semi-final showcased his class. His ability to find space and finish with precision made him a constant threat.
Legacy: Litmanen remains a beloved figure at Ajax, known for his humility and professionalism. His influence extends to Finnish football, where he is celebrated as the country’s greatest-ever player.
Other Clubs: He also had stints at Barcelona and Liverpool but never quite replicated his magic from his Ajax days.
Patrick Kluivert
Position: Striker
Career: 1994–1997
Achievements: Kluivert burst onto the scene as a teenager, scoring the winning goal in the 1995 Champions League final against AC Milan. His physicality, technical ability, and natural goalscoring instincts made him one of the brightest young talents in world football.
Iconic Moments: The Champions League-winning goal in 1995 (YouTube) remains the highlight of his Ajax career, an iconic moment that announced his arrival on the world stage. His partnership with Litmanen and Overmars was a nightmare for defenders.
Legacy: Kluivert’s impact at Ajax was immense, despite his relatively short spell at the club. He went on to have a successful career at Barcelona and remains a respected figure in Dutch football.
Other Clubs: Kluivert became a star at Barcelona and also played for AC Milan, Newcastle United, and several other clubs.
Ruud Krol
Position: Defender
Career: 1968–1980
Achievements: Krol was a defensive stalwart for Ajax, playing a crucial role in the club’s three consecutive European Cup victories in the early 1970s. His versatility allowed him to excel as a full-back and a central defender. Krol’s composure and tactical awareness made him one of the best defenders of his era.
Iconic Moments: His performances in the European Cup finals were exceptional, showcasing his ability to read the game and contribute to Ajax’s attacking play. He was also a key figure for the Dutch national team in the 1974 and 1978 World Cups.
Legacy: Krol’s contributions to Ajax’s golden era are still celebrated, and his influence on Dutch football’s defensive philosophy is undeniable.
Other Clubs: After leaving Ajax, Krol played for Napoli and Cannes, continuing to impress with his defensive acumen.
Clarence Seedorf
Position: Midfielder
Career: 1992–1995
Achievements: Seedorf’s time at Ajax may have been brief, but it was filled with success. He became the youngest player to win the Champions League, lifting the trophy in 1995. His strength, passing range, and tactical understanding set him apart as one of the brightest talents of his generation.
Iconic Moments: His performances in the 1995 Champions League campaign were outstanding, particularly his ability to control games from midfield. Seedorf’s maturity on the ball belied his young age, and his influence was felt across the pitch.
Legacy: Seedorf went on to achieve even greater success at Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and AC Milan, becoming the only player to win the Champions League with three different clubs. However, his roots at Ajax remain an essential part of his storied career.
Other Clubs: Seedorf’s illustrious career spanned some of Europe’s biggest clubs, where he won countless trophies and accolades.
Sjaak Swart
Position: Forward/Winger
Career: 1956–1973
Achievements: Known as “Mister Ajax,” Swart made a record 603 appearances for the club, winning eight Eredivisie titles and three European Cups. His work rate, skill, and loyalty made him a fan favorite, and his contributions to Ajax’s dominance in the 1970s were immense.
Iconic Moments: Swart’s consistency and dedication were evident throughout his career. His performances in European competitions helped establish Ajax as a force to be reckoned with. His loyalty to the club is legendary, and he remains deeply involved with Ajax to this day. Not only do the fans consider him one of the Ajax legends, but he himself does too. And rightfully so.
Legacy: Swart’s record of appearances is a testament to his longevity and commitment. Even after retirement, he has been a passionate ambassador for Ajax, embodying the club’s spirit and tradition.
Other Clubs: Swart was a true one-club man, dedicating his entire professional career to Ajax.
These legends have given Ajax fans countless moments of joy and pride. Their legacies live on, inspiring future generations and keeping the spirit of Ajax alive. If you want to experience the magic of these legends firsthand, make sure to explore our Ultimate Amsterdam Soccer Travel Guide for the best tips on immersing yourself in Ajax’s rich history.
