Marc Overmars: Ex-Arsenal star resigns from Ajax over 'inappropriate messages' to female colleagues

Ex-Arsenal and Barcelona star Marc Overmars has resigned as sporting director of Ajax football club after sending "inappropriate messages" to female colleagues.

The former Dutch international announced he would be stepping down from his role with "immediate effect".

Overmars apologised for his actions and admitted that he had "crossed the line", according to a club statement.

Ajax stated that their former director had sent "inappropriate" messages to "several women" over an "extended period of time".

"I am ashamed. Last week I was confronted with reports of my behaviour and how it was experienced by others," Overmars said.

"This behaviour is unacceptable. I see it now too. But it is too late. I see no other choice but to leave Ajax," he added.

"This also has a major impact on my private situation. That's why I ask everyone to leave me and my family alone."

Overmars had been director of footballing affairs at the European giants since 2012 and had won the UEFA Champions League with Ajax as a player in 1995. He also played for Arsenal and Barcelona, as well as appearing 86 times for the Dutch national side.

The 48-year-old has been credited with making significant contributions to Ajax in recent years and club chairman Leen Meijaard described Overmars as "probably the best director of football Ajax has ever had".

But Meijaard stated that "continuing was not an option" and acknowledged the "devastating" impact that Overmaras' behaviour had had on women.

"I feel it is my responsibility to help our colleagues because of my role," added Ajax general manager Edwin van der Sar.

"A safe working environment is very important for everyone at Ajax. We will pay even more attention to this in the near future."

Overmars' resignation comes just