Soccer · Managers · published 2026-10-15T00:00:00+00:00 · via Barca Blaugranes

Ajax boss Michel backs Ter Stegen after waxwork comparison

Ajax manager Michel has defended Barcelona loanee Marc-Andre ter Stegen after a reporter compared the goalkeeper to a wax museum figure. The criticism followed Ajax's weekend draw with Nijmegen, and Michel said he disagreed with the description. Ter Stegen has made seven Eredivisie appearances for Ajax, who are currently fifth in the table.

Expanded Detail

Michel, Ajax’s coach, publicly rejected a reporter’s suggestion that Barcelona loanee Marc-Andre ter Stegen resembled a wax museum exhibit. The remark came during a tense post-match press conference following Ajax’s 1-1 league draw with Nijmegen.

Ter Stegen joined Ajax last summer, linking up again with Michel after an injury-shortened stint at Girona. The German goalkeeper has played seven Eredivisie matches, while Ajax sit fifth, five points adrift of Feyenoord.

Context

This exchange may shape how fans and reporters discuss players’ form, especially loan players under pressure. It could add scrutiny on Ter Stegen and Ajax’s coaching staff, while also prompting debate about respectful criticism in sports media. Supporters might rally around the goalkeeper, or the coverage may intensify pressure on his performances and Michel’s handling of the squad.

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.

Read the full article at Barca Blaugranes →

This summary is Al-enhanced to contain extended analysis and broader social context. The original is {NAME); the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Michel defends Barcelona loanee Marc-Andre ter Stegen from ‘statue’ criticism.” Browse more stories.