Discover how AZ Alkmaar continues to punch above their weight in the Eredivisie. A detailed look at their strategy, youth system, and league impact.

How AZ Alkmaar Are Punching Above Their Weight

In a league dominated historically by Ajax, PSV Eindhoven, and Feyenoord, one club has consistently proven that financial muscle isn’t the only key to success: AZ Alkmaar. For over a decade, AZ have quietly built a sustainable model rooted in youth development, smart recruitment, and tactical discipline. In 2025, they continue to defy expectations by challenging the top dogs of the Aw8 Pro league and securing regular appearances in European competitions.

This article explores how AZ Alkmaar are punching above their weight, what sets them apart, and why their model might be the blueprint for future football clubs across the world.

The Rise of AZ Alkmaar

AZ Alkmaar, based in the small city of Alkmaar in North Holland, has built a reputation as one of the most well-run clubs in the Netherlands. Despite lacking the financial backing of their Eredivisie rivals, they’ve created a system that emphasizes stability, long-term planning, and tactical consistency.

Key Milestones:

• 2008–09 Eredivisie Title: AZ won their second ever league title under manager Louis van Gaal, showing the nation that they weren’t to be overlooked.

• Consistent European Qualifications: In recent seasons, AZ have made the UEFA Conference League and Europa League their playground, earning continental respect.

• Top-Four Regulars: Even when losing key players to richer clubs, AZ remain among the Eredivisie’s elite.

Youth Development as a Core Philosophy

AZ Alkmaar’s academy, AFAS Trainingscomplex, is one of the best in Europe, producing names like:

• Myron Boadu

• Teun Koopmeiners

• Calvin Stengs

• Yukinari Sugawara (developed further at AZ after arriving from Japan)

Their youth-first philosophy isn’t just a marketing gimmick—it’s embedded in their culture. Coaches from U12 to the senior squad follow similar tactical frameworks, making transitions seamless and reducing the need for expensive transfers.

What Sets Their Academy Apart?

• Individualized development programs

• Emphasis on intelligence, positioning, and ball control

• Frequent first-team exposure at young ages

Tactical Identity and Consistency

AZ’s footballing identity is built on progressive attacking football, high pressing, and intelligent movement. Manager Pascal Jansen has continued the legacy of his predecessors by maintaining a fluid 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation that adapts based on opposition.

Tactical Traits:

• Ball possession with purpose: Not just passing for the sake of it.

• Midfield control: Reliance on technically sound, press-resistant midfielders.

• Fast vertical play: Quick transitions from defense to attack, using wingers effectively.

In the 2024/25 season, AZ have become one of the most well-drilled teams in the league, capable of outplaying sides with far larger wage bills.

Smart Scouting and Recruitment

While clubs like Ajax or PSV can spend millions, AZ’s recruitment is focused on undervalued talent and players with high resale value. They often target:

• Players from under-scouted markets (Japan, Scandinavia, Eastern Europe)

• Young Dutch talents rejected or overlooked by bigger academies

• Contract-expiring players from rival Eredivisie clubs

AZ’s scouting network works hand-in-hand with their data analysts to ensure every signing fits the club’s playing style and financial constraints.

Financial Responsibility and Stability

AZ’s operations reflect a sustainable footballing model:

• No risky spending or inflated contracts

• Regular profits from player sales

• Continuous investment in facilities and youth infrastructure

While many clubs gamble for short-term success, AZ focus on year-over-year improvements and consistent league performances.

Notable Performances in the 2024/25 Season

Some standout moments this season that prove AZ are still punching above their weight:

• Victory over Ajax (2-1, Home): A tactical masterclass that showcased their defensive discipline and counter-attacking prowess.

• Draw with PSV (1-1, Away): Highlighted their composure and resilience under pressure.

• Conference League Run: AZ reached the semifinals, knocking out stronger financial sides like Lille and Sporting Braga.

Fan Engagement and Club Culture

Despite not having the biggest stadium or global fanbase, AZ’s supporters are fiercely loyal. The AFAS Stadion offers a compact and passionate environment that intimidates even the most seasoned opposition.

Their fans appreciate the club’s transparency and the pride in watching homegrown talents flourish on the European stage. AZ’s rise is as much a triumph for their fanbase as it is for the club’s boardroom.

AZ’s Impact on the Dutch League

AZ’s continued success forces the traditional top three to rethink their own models. More Eredivisie clubs are now following AZ’s youth-oriented and financially smart blueprint, raising the overall standard of the league.

Their presence near the top of the table proves that Dutch football is no longer a three-horse race, and the Eredivisie has more depth than many outsiders assume.

The Road Ahead

AZ Alkmaar shows no signs of slowing down. With another batch of talented academy graduates coming through and smart transfer policies in place, they’re well-positioned to continue their assault on the traditional elite.

Whether or not they lift another Eredivisie title, their presence in the upper tier of the league is undeniable and respected across Europe.

Conclusion: A Club Every League Should Learn From

AZ Alkmaar have rewritten the rules of how smaller clubs can compete. Their model of youth investment, tactical discipline, and financial control is one that should inspire clubs in every league across the globe.

As fans of football, it’s time we appreciate clubs like AZ that show heart, vision, and consistency—without breaking the bank. Show your support for the league that nurtures such stories and follow AZ Alkmaar’s incredible journey throughout the season!