Key Takeaways:
- Daley Blind agreed a one-year deal to return to Ajax following his release from Girona at the end of June
- Blind, now 36, has 333 appearances for Ajax, winning seven Eredivisie titles, two Dutch Cups, and two Johan Cruyff Shields
- The defender immediately joined Ajax’ training camp in Garderen and is expected to take on a coaching role after the 2026-27 season
Ajax Welcome Back Club Stalwart Daley Blind
Ajax have officially announced that Daley Blind has rejoined the side on a one-year contract, marking the start of the 36-year-old’s third and anticipated final stint with the Amsterdam club. Blind becomes available on a free transfer after his agreement with Girona, who suffered relegation from La Liga, expired at the conclusion of June.
Daley Blind, 2027. pic.twitter.com/ImWCLanfwQ
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) July 8, 2026
Legacy and Honours at Ajax
Blind, an Ajax youth product, began his professional journey with the club, making his debut in December 2008. His initial spell established him as a vital part of the squad before he departed for Manchester United in 2014. A return in 2018 saw him contribute further to Ajax’ domestic dominance. Within his Ajax career, Blind has contested 333 matches and collected seven Eredivisie championships, two Dutch Cups, and two Johan Cruyff Shields.
Remarkably, every one of Ajax’ last seven Eredivisie titles have come while Blind was on the roster, with the side failing to secure any league titles between 2011 and his returns.
Blind’s Immediate Impact and Future Role
Ajax technical director Jordi Cruyff expressed his enthusiasm for Blind’s return, remarking on the club website: “It’s great to see Daley returning to the club where it all began for him,” Cruyff noted. “He brings experience, composure and quality, and that can help this squad straight away. For us, this is a logical step, as someone with his background and personality fits in with what we’re trying to achieve.”
Blind has joined Ajax’ pre-season camp in Garderen and has committed to a one-year playing contract. He is expected to transition into a coaching position with the club after the 2026-27 season.
Connection with Manager Michel and Style of Play
Blind’s return aligns with the earlier appointment of Michel, his former boss at Girona, who agreed a two-year contract with Ajax in June. Blind has previously shared that he “really likes to work with Michel” and “likes his philosophy of playing. Building up from the back, with many positional changes and attractive football.”
