“He is a complete footballer” – Leeds United Never Looked Back After Ajax’s Pascal Struijk Decision
In the modern game, where versatility and tactical awareness are highly prized, Pascal Struijk has emerged as one of the most significant assets for Leeds United. Since his arrival from Ajax in 2018, the towering Dutch defender has grown into an indispensable figure at Elland Road. But it wasn’t always guaranteed that the young talent would thrive in England, nor that Leeds would be able to harness his full potential. Now, with every commanding performance, Leeds United fans are grateful for Ajax’s decision to let Struijk go—because the club has reaped the benefits ever since.
Pascal Struijk joined Leeds United from Ajax’s famed youth academy, where he had initially developed his footballing foundations. Known for producing elite talent, the Ajax academy has been a conveyor belt for world-class players such as Matthijs de Ligt and Frenkie de Jong. However, Struijk, who began his journey as a central defender, did not make the cut in the Eredivisie giants’ senior team and opted for a move to England.
At Leeds, Struijk quickly showcased the hallmarks of a modern footballer—intelligence, adaptability, and composure under pressure. Initially brought in as a center-back, he soon displayed his ability to step into other roles, including defensive midfield and left-back, a flexibility that has made him essential in Marcelo Bielsa’s tactical schemes and beyond.
Described by teammates and coaches as a “complete footballer,” Struijk has flourished in both defensive and playmaking roles. His tall frame makes him a commanding presence in aerial duels, while his refined ball-playing ability suits Leeds’ possession-based style. Often deployed as a left-sided center-back, his calmness on the ball has allowed him to initiate attacks from deep and break opposition lines with precise passing. This dual function, being defensively solid while also contributing offensively, has made him one of Leeds’ most important players in recent years.
As manager Daniel Farke pointed out, “Struijk is the kind of player every coach dreams of. Whether you need him in the heart of defense or to break up play in midfield, he’ll do the job efficiently. He is a complete footballer in every sense.”
It’s hard to avoid the sense that Ajax might now regret their decision to let Struijk leave. At the time, it seemed like a reasonable move for both club and player—Ajax had a wealth of young defenders emerging, and Struijk sought more first-team opportunities. However, as the 6’3” defender continues to impress in England, it raises the inevitable “what-if” questions in Amsterdam. With Ajax enduring some defensive struggles in recent seasons, Struijk could have been the stabilizing force their backline so desperately needed.
For Leeds, however, it has been the opposite story. The club not only saw Struijk as a developmental project but also nurtured him into a player capable of handling Premier League and Championship challenges. His importance to Leeds was highlighted in their promotion-winning 2019-2020 season and has only grown since.
Leeds United have experienced ups and downs since returning to the Premier League, but one constant has been Struijk’s presence. His ability to slot in across various defensive positions has been crucial for a team that has faced injury challenges and squad depth issues. Even when Leeds’ form has fluctuated, Struijk has been a consistent performer, playing an integral role in ensuring Leeds remained competitive at the highest level.
In the 2023/2024 season, as Leeds aim for a return to the Premier League following relegation, Struijk’s leadership and maturity have been even more crucial. Still only in his mid-20s, his development continues, and with Leeds rebuilding, he is undoubtedly a core piece of the club’s future aspirations.
Ajax’s decision to part ways with Struijk may have seemed inconsequential at the time, but for Leeds United, it was a game-changer. The club secured a player who not only grew into a cornerstone of their defense but has also embodied the spirit of resilience and adaptability that Leeds United strives for.
While Ajax might ponder the one that got away, Leeds United and their fans look at Struijk as one of the best signings in recent memory—a complete footballer who has helped them navigate some of the most challenging periods in their modern history. And as he continues to evolve, there’s no doubt that Leeds will continue to benefit from Ajax’s overlooked gem.
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