Ajax Dismiss Head Coach John Heitinga Following Dire Season Opener

Ajax, the prominent Dutch club, announced on Thursday that they have dismissed head coach John Heitinga due to a dismal beginning to the campaign, leaving them at the foot of the Champions League standings.

"Ajax seeks a replacement head coach. For now, Fred Grim will assume Heitingas responsibilities," stated the four-time European winners in their official release.

Heitinga had inked a two-year deal in May, yet failed to reverse the teams downward spiral. Ajax confirmed his contract termination.

Technical director Alex Kroes described the choice as a "difficult one".

"We understand it often requires time for a fresh manager to gel with a revamped roster," Kroes explained.

"John received that opportunity, but we feel it serves the club better to bring in new leadership for the squad."

Kroes submitted his resignation, though the board urged him to remain for stability.

His agreement runs until the seasons close. 

"If Ajax selects a new technical director sooner, I will pass on my duties then," he added.

The tipping point seemed to be another crushing Champions League setback on Wednesday.

Ajax suffered a 3-0 home defeat to Galatasaray, following a 5-1 rout at Chelsea.

Earlier losses of 4-0 to Marseille and 2-0 against Inter Milan result in a woeful European tally: no points, one goal netted, and 14 shipped.

In the domestic league, Ajax hold fourth spot in the Eredivisie, trailing leaders Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven by eight points.

Supporters booed Heitinga during the Stamford Bridge match over his changes, indicating a loss of backing from fans.

The Amsterdam outfit continues to rebound from last seasons chaotic finish, where they squandered the championship from a strong lead.

With five games left, Ajax led by nine points and appeared destined for glory.

However, they stumbled, dropping two matches and tying twice, gifting the crown to PSV Eindhoven.

The prior year brought Ajaxs poorest campaign launch, briefly occupying the Eredivisies basement.

Heitinga featured as a central defender for Atletico Madrid, Everton, and Fulham, hanging up his boots in 2016 after returning briefly to Ajax, his formative team.

He earned 87 caps for the Netherlands, though he received a red card in extra time during the 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2010 World Cup decider.