Ajax Name Starting XI for Away Match Against Sparta Rotterdam
Ajax begin their away fixture against Sparta Rotterdam at 16:45, with coach Míchel Sánchez making several notable selections as his side looks to build momentum in the Eredivisie. The confirmed starting XI features a reshaped midfield, a new option at centre-forward and a change on the left wing, giving the visitors a different attacking profile from their recent match against Atalanta.
Marc ter Stegen starts in goal for Ajax in Rotterdam. In front of him, Thilo Kehrer and Dies Janse are paired in central defence, while Lucas Rosa and Youri Baas take the full-back positions. The back line will be tasked with keeping Sparta’s attack under control while helping Ajax play forward from the defensive third.
Brandt Returns to Midfield as Klaassen Drops to the Bench
The most significant adjustment comes in midfield. Sofyan Amrabat and Jorthy Mokio retain their places, with Julian Brandt joining them in the starting trio. Davy Klaassen, who began Ajax’s match against Atalanta, is named among the substitutes instead.
Brandt’s inclusion gives Ajax an experienced creative presence through the centre. He can help connect the midfield with the forwards, find space between Sparta’s defensive lines and contribute to the team’s build-up. Amrabat is expected to offer balance and protection, while Mokio adds another option for carrying the ball and supporting attacks. How effectively the three combine could be one of the defining features of the contest.
The change also influences Ajax’s attacking shape. With Brandt moving into midfield, Viktor Tsygankov starts on the right wing. His positioning gives Ajax a direct threat on that side and the opportunity to stretch Sparta’s defence, either by taking on a defender or moving inside to create space for an overlapping full-back.
Arokodare Leads the Line, Ouazane Starts on the Left
Tolu Arokodare replaces Marcos Leonardo as Ajax’s centre-forward. His presence offers the visitors a different focal point in attack, with his physicality and movement potentially useful when Ajax look to play into the box or challenge for crosses. The striker will be supported by Tsygankov on the right and Abdellah Ouazane on the left.
Ouazane earns a starting place after scoring an impressive goal against Atalanta. That performance appears to have strengthened his case for selection, and the winger will be eager to carry his confidence into this league fixture. His ability to attack defenders and create chances could be especially important if Sparta defend in numbers and limit space through the middle.
For Ajax, the combination of Arokodare’s presence up front and the pace and creativity around him could provide several routes to goal. The visitors may look to build patiently through Brandt and Amrabat, but they also have the option of moving the ball quickly towards the wings and delivering into the area.
Sparta Rotterdam Line-Up Still to Be Confirmed
Sparta Rotterdam’s starting line-up has not yet been announced. That means the precise tactical match-ups remain unclear, including which players will be asked to track Tsygankov and Ouazane or compete with Arokodare in the penalty area. Once Sparta’s team is confirmed, the balance of the contest may become easier to assess.
Even before the home side’s selection is revealed, Ajax’s choices point to an emphasis on attacking flexibility. The visitors have made changes without abandoning a familiar structure, and their front three can switch positions or attack different areas of the pitch. Sparta’s response—particularly its pressing intensity and defensive shape—could determine whether Ajax are able to turn possession into clear chances.
Match Prediction: What Could Decide the Game?
Any football prediction before kick-off should be treated with caution, especially while Sparta’s line-up remains unknown. However, Ajax’s selection offers a few clues about the approach Míchel Sánchez may favour. Brandt’s role suggests the visitors want creativity and control in midfield, while the inclusion of Arokodare points to a desire for a stronger central presence in attack.
Ajax’s main challenge will be converting that potential into consistent pressure. If Brandt finds room to receive the ball and the wide players can isolate their markers, the visitors may be able to create openings. Sparta, meanwhile, will look to make the home advantage count and could threaten if Ajax leave space behind their full-backs. The first goal may prove particularly important: an early Ajax breakthrough could open the game, while a prolonged stalemate would give Sparta more opportunity to grow into the contest.
For supporters, the key points to watch are Brandt’s influence in midfield, Arokodare’s connection with the wingers and whether Ouazane can follow up his strong showing against Atalanta. These factors will help shape the match—and could ultimately determine whether Ajax leave Rotterdam with a positive result.
Ajax Starting Line-Up
Ajax: Marc ter Stegen; Lucas Rosa, Thilo Kehrer, Dies Janse, Youri Baas; Sofyan Amrabat, Jorthy Mokio, Julian Brandt; Viktor Tsygankov, Tolu Arokodare, Abdellah Ouazane.
Sparta Rotterdam: Line-up not yet announced.
What Comes Next for Ajax?
Ajax’s schedule continues with a KNVB Cup fixture against Sittard on 29 October 2026, followed by an Eredivisie meeting with AZ on 1 November 2026. The Rotterdam match therefore offers an important opportunity to build confidence before two demanding games in quick succession. A strong performance would not only help Ajax in the league but also give the coaching staff useful evidence about how this revised midfield and forward line work together.
