Ajax announce Marc Overmars departure after ‘inappropriate messages’ to colleagues

Ajax have announced that their director of football Marc Overmars will leave the club with immediate effect after ‘inappropriate messages’ to colleagues. The former Arsenal icon has been in his role since 2012, and has built up a reputation as an impressive figure behind the scenes, leading to him being linked with the likes of Newcastle.

In a club statement late on Sunday night, Ajax explained the reasons behind his sudden departure, suggesting he had been involved in ‘cross-border messages’ with female colleagues.

Supervisory Board chairman Leen Meijaard said: “This is a dramatic situation for everyone who is involved in this in any way. It is drastic for the women who had to deal with the behavior.

“When we heard noises about this, we immediately acted, carefully. It was carefully considered and weighed up what was the best thing to do, all in consultation with general manager Edwin van der Sar and assisted by an external expert.

“Marc is probably the best football director that Ajax has had. We have not upgraded and extended his contract for nothing.

“But unfortunately he has really crossed boundaries, so continuing as director was not an option, he saw that himself.

“It is very painful and I want to express the wish that everyone involved is given the peace and privacy to process this.”

General manager Edwin van der Sar added: “I think the situation is appalling for everyone and I agree with Leen Meijaard’s words.

“In my role I also feel responsible to help colleagues. A safe working climate is very important for everyone at Ajax. We will pay even more attention to this in the near future.

“Marc and I have been playing together since the early 1990s, first at Ajax and then at Netherlands and we have been colleagues in the management of Ajax for almost ten years now. Now stops very abruptly.

“We are working on something very beautiful here, so this news will also be a blow to everyone who cares about Ajax.”

Overmars said: “I am ashamed. Last week I was confronted with reports about my behavior and how this has come across to others.

“Unfortunately, I did not realize that I had crossed boundaries with this, but that became clear to me these days. I suddenly felt an enormous pressure.

“I offer my apologies. Especially for someone in my position, this behavior cannot be justified, I now see that too. But too late. I see no other option than to stop at Ajax. This also has a major impact on my private situation. That’s why I ask everyone to leave me and my family alone.”