After “inappropriate messages to women” and “unacceptable behavior”, Marc Overmars leaves Ajax Amsterdam

The Royal Netherlands Football Association on Monday called on victims to report the inappropriate behavior. “We are shocked by the information on Ajax and send all our support to the victims, reacted the KNVB. We are aware that, unfortunately, power relations can also play a role in the workplace in sport. The statement from the body follows the departure of Marc Overmars following his departure from Ajax Amsterdam.

The former winger, who has apologized, admitted to having “crossed the line”, according to a statement from the club published on Sunday evening, which refers to “inappropriate messages” addressed to “several women” over an “extended period of time” . ” I am ashamed. Last week I was confronted with reports of my behavior and how it was experienced by others,” Overmars said, as quoted in the statement.

“A safe working environment is very important for everyone”

The chairman of the club’s board of directors, Leen Meijaard, for his part regretted “a dramatic situation” and “devastating for the women who had to face this behavior”. “Because of my role, I feel that it is my responsibility to help our colleagues, for his part reacted the general manager of Ajax, Edwin van der Sar, also a glorious former Ajax and of the Oranges. A safe working climate is very important to everyone at Ajax. We will pay even more attention to this in the near future. »

The departure of Overmars raises, according to Valentijn Driessen, head of football at the popular daily From Telegraaf, other questions, including whether coach Erik ten Hag – who had a close working relationship with him – will stay at Ajax. The club’s recent successes have partly been attributed to the roles of Overmars and Van der Sar. The Netherlands were particularly thrilled during the club’s European epic in the Champions League in 2019 (semi-final) or during its final in the Europa League in 2017. The impact of his departure goes beyond the world of football. soccer. Ajax, which is listed on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, saw its share price plunge nearly 5% in early morning trading on Monday.