Ajax CEO Edwin van der Sar has once again distanced himself from a return to Manchester United.
Reports from the Netherlands recently suggested that United had reached out to Van der Sar over becoming their new director of football – reigniting a rumour which has been a regular feature in the gossip column over the past few years.
Van der Sar’s current contract in Amsterdam runs until 2023 but both Ajax and the former goalkeeper have publicly confirmed an extension until 2025 which will be triggered following November’s shareholder meeting.
Speaking to The Times, Van der Sar wasted little time in batting away the rumours of a possible move to United.
“It’s never been that close,” Van der Sar said about previous talks with United.
“I have a good relationship with the board and I had a fantastic six years in Manchester, but I’m not finished here yet.”
Most of Van der Sar’s contact with United this summer revolved around on-field issues, beginning with the move of manager Erik ten Hag to Old Trafford.
“Of course we tried to persuade him to stay, but Erik is someone who knows what he wants and the direction he wants to go,” Van der Sar admitted. “The moment United made their approach, it was obvious it was a big challenge for him and that he wanted to take it.”
Ten Hag ended up bring both Lisandro Martinez and Antony with him, the latter of whom was involved in a public falling out with Ajax before eventually sealing an £86m move to Manchester late in the window.
“It was [an] economic [decision] but it was a hard one to take,” Van der Sar said of Antony’s exit. “We knew there was interest but not at that level and it was too late to find a good replacement.
“I don’t think the way [Antony] handled it was the correct one, but it’s important all the players who leave Ajax have success because it reflects well on us.”
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