Sneijder Criticizes Substitution Decision: Gloukh Should Never Be Taken Off at Such Key Moments
Wesley Sneijder has expressed strong criticism regarding the decision to substitute Oscar Gloukh during the recent match against Chelsea. The incident occurred after Ajax suffered a setback when Kenneth Taylor received a red card just fifteen minutes into the Champions League game.
Sneijder’s Concerns on Substitution Decision
During the broadcast on Ziggo Sport, Sneijder pointed out the tactical implications of replacing Gloukh with Jorthy Mokio. The move prompted a negative response from fans, who voiced their frustration by chanting, “Johnny, rot op!”
Sneijder, a former Ajax midfielder, empathized with John Heitinga, Ajax’s head coach, noting that he had other plans for the game. He emphasized that the team was performing well in the opening minutes, strategically lined up in a 4-4-2 formation with Weghorst and Gloukh pushing high. This approach had initially kept them defensively stable.
Controversial Timing of Substitution
The decision to remove Gloukh is particularly controversial, especially following the backlash he faced after being substituted in the previous match against AZ. “In such crucial moments, Gloukh should not be taken off,” said Sneijder, highlighting that this was an error that could incite fan discontent.
Impact of Red Cards on the Match
Ronald de Boer, also commenting during the broadcast, criticized Kenneth Taylor’s reckless challenge leading to his red card. He acknowledged that while it was unfortunate, players must consistently assess the field’s conditions and adapt their actions accordingly.
- Taylor received a red card for a sliding tackle on Chelsea’s Facundo Buonanotte.
- Wout Weghorst also faced a dangerous incident when the Chelsea defender, Tosin Adarabioyo, struck him in the head.
Furthermore, De Boer questioned why Adarabioyo was not penalized more severely, asserting that deliberate attempts to injure should warrant a red card. De Boer emphasized that it was a conscious act, contradicting the referee’s decision to issue only a yellow card.
Weghorst’s Rampant Emotion
Wout Weghorst’s emotional performance was a focal point during the match. Following his clash with Adarabioyo, he was soon involved in a controversial penalty incident, bringing down Enzo Fernández. Sneijder suggested that this foul was anticipated given Weghorst’s aggressive play style during the game.
The actions of both Taylor and Weghorst illustrate the intense dynamics and pressures faced by players in high-stakes matches such as the Champions League. The discussions around strategies and player substitutions highlight the complexities that coaches must navigate in real-time scenarios.
