Ajax’s Rising Stars: Gómez and Olgers – A Glimpse into the Future
Ajax is nurturing a new generation of talent, showcased during the recent Future Cup. While Ajax O17’s performance was inconsistent, several players stood out, including Guus Olgers and Eloi Gómez Saus. Both players, despite being sidelined by injury during the tournament, represent the potential blossoming within the Ajax youth system.
Guus Olgers: A Leader in the Making
Goalkeeper Guus Olgers, signed from FC Volendam in the summer of 2023, has quickly become a standout player for Ajax. Despite facing challenges with growth and training intensity, he earned his first professional contract a year ago, demonstrating the club’s faith in his abilities. Currently recovering from an injury that kept him out of the Future Cup, Olgers describes himself as a reliable keeper who exudes calmness and provides leadership within the team.
Olgers emphasizes the importance of his leadership qualities, coaching teammates and serving as a calming presence. He identifies improving his left foot and decision-making on crosses as key areas for development, aiming to become a more complete goalkeeper.
Eloi Gómez Saus: A Midfield Maestro from Barcelona
Eloi Gómez Saus, a 17-year-old midfielder, arrived at Ajax from FC Barcelona last summer, marking a significant transfer. While a recent injury prevented his participation in the Future Cup, Gómez has already impressed in his initial appearances for the club. He describes his playing style as one focused on building play, dictating tempo, and utilizing his vision, passing ability, and technique.
Gómez highlighted Ajax’s clear plan for his development and the club’s reputation for having one of the best youth academies in the world as key factors in his decision to join. He is currently working towards regaining full fitness and hopes to contribute to the team before the end of the season. He acknowledges the need to improve his defensive contributions and add more variation to his running.
The Ajax Pathway: A Commitment to Youth
Both Olgers and Gómez exemplify Ajax’s commitment to developing young talent. The club’s ability to attract players like Gómez from prestigious academies such as Barcelona underscores its reputation as a breeding ground for future stars. The Future Cup, while a showcase for the current crop of players, also serves as a glimpse into the potential future of Ajax’s first team.
Eloi Gómez’s contract with Ajax runs until June 30, 2028, and Guus Olgers’ also extends to the same date.
FAQ
Q: Where did Guus Olgers play before joining Ajax?
A: Guus Olgers joined Ajax from FC Volendam in the summer of 2023.
Q: Where did Eloi Gómez Saus play before joining Ajax?
A: Eloi Gómez Saus came to Ajax from FC Barcelona.
Q: What position does Eloi Gómez Saus play?
A: Eloi Gómez Saus plays as a defensive midfielder, but can also play as a central midfielder or right-back.
Q: What are the key areas for improvement for both players?
A: Olgers is focused on improving his left foot and decision-making on crosses, while Gómez aims to enhance his defensive contributions and add more variation to his running.
