Ajax coach Peter Bosz said it would be understandable for his young side to feel nervous – and his fears were confirmed as they were never able to show off the full extent of their glittering promise.
Six of the starting line-up were 21 or under in the youngest 11 to start a major European final, with an average age of 22 years and 280 days. In defender Matthijs de Ligt, they had the youngest player to feature in one at 17 years and 285 days.
“It was a boring game. There were no chances from both sides,” Bosz said after the final whistle.
“I’m disappointed because you play finals to win them. We didn’t. I haven’t seen the Ajax that I’m used to.”
This was a night of disappointment for this great, historic old club but they are staying true to their finest traditions by producing outstanding young talent and showing a commitment to attacking football.
Ajax have established the foundations for more success.
“For all the players, this is the first final,” he added.
“They will learn a lot from it and we will become stronger, and if we can keep this squad together we will be stronger next season, for sure.” BBC