Boudewijn Zenden shares verdict after ‘Crazy’ development led to West Ham United appointment
Boudewijn Zenden has shared his verdict on John Heitinga’s exit from Ajax following the news that he has joined the coaching staff at West Ham.
Speaking to Soccernews.nl on 12 September, the Dutchman said his compatriot was in “pole position” to take over as manager at the Eredivisie giants before a “crazy” situation developed, with the club instead handing the role to Maurice Steijn.
But after Heitinga’s interim spell in charge at Ajax came to an end, Zenden believes it is “great” that he has now joined the Hammers as a first-team assistant to David Moyes following the announcement on 5 September.
‘Heitinga was in pole position for the job, but soon afterwards they appointed Maurice Steijn,” he said. “How that happened is actually crazy.
“It is great for John that he has now resumed his career as assistant to David Moyes at West Ham United.”
Opportunity
The move can be seen as a good opportunity for both parties as West Ham have brought in someone who picked up great experience during his playing career and Heitinga will be able to learn alongside some top coaches.
It’s no surprise to see Zenden be a little bit frustrated about his departure from Ajax because he is his brother-in-law, so the decision directly affected his family.
But the former Everton defender knows Moyes very well from his days at Goodison Park, so the Hammers boss must have plenty of trust in him after bringing him into his coaching team.
The 39-year-old made 87 appearances for the superb Dutch side that reached the World Cup final in 2010, meaning he has plenty of insight that the Irons players can draw upon.
He will also know summer recruits Edson Alvarez and Mohammed Kudus very well after working with the duo during their time in Amsterdam together.
In other West Ham news, Moyes has been granted sole responsibility as a transfer decision is set to be made in the next 24 hours.