GOAL

Johan Cruyff says he wants Ajax to play just like Bayern Munich and Barcelona in the future.

The Netherlands great has praised the manner in which Pep Guardiola has swiftly implemented his passing philosophy at the club

The Netherlands legend was the star of the famous Ajax side of the 1970s, whose 'Total Football' philosophy was based on possession and the ability of players to play in multiple positions.

Both Bayern and Barca have played in a similar style under coach Pep Guardiola and Cruyff has praised the 44-year-old for his success in implementing his system at both clubs.

"The fact that the Germans have learnt this style of play in under two seasons with Guardiola shows that it can be taught," he said to De Telegraaf.

"This is exactly the direction that we want to pursue with Ajax. It's a system that emphasises dominance of possession and attacking football."

Bayern and Barcelona face one another in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday night as Guardiola faces the Catalans for the first time since leaving the club in 2012.

Cruyff, who was a Barcelona player before spending eight years in charge between 1988 and 1996, coached Guardiola during his time in charge at Camp Nou.