Ajax is actively exploring the acquisition of Moroccan midfielder Azzedine Ounahi from Girona to bolster its squad, according to reports from Algemeen Dagblad. While former international Ali Boussaboun identifies Ounahi as a high-quality addition, analysts Hedwiges Maduro and Anco Jansen emphasize that integrating experienced veterans like Daley Blind remains essential to stabilizing the club’s tactical maturity.
The Case for Azzedine Ounahi at Ajax
Interest in Azzedine Ounahi centers on his technical proficiency and ability to control the midfield. Speaking on the ESPN program WK-Praat, Ali Boussaboun argued that the 26-year-old would represent a “quality injection” for the Amsterdam side. Boussaboun noted that Ounahi’s ball-carrying skills make him a strong candidate to improve the current squad’s output.
However, Boussaboun also offered a cautionary note regarding the midfielder’s consistency. He described Ounahi as sometimes “too playful,” suggesting that the player occasionally struggles to read the tactical requirements of a match. Despite this, Boussaboun maintains that if Ounahi matures his game-management, he could become an “absolute asset” for the Eredivisie.
Pro Tip: Look for tactical discipline in midfield signings. While technical flair is highly valued, the ability to “read the game” is often the difference between a high-potential player and a consistent starter.
Financial Barriers and Tactical Familiarity
The path to signing Ounahi is complicated by financial constraints. According to Algemeen Dagblad, the player has a release clause of 25 million euros in his contract with Girona, which runs until 2030. While Ajax views the player as a priority, the club is reportedly unwilling to trigger the full release fee.
The primary driver for the move is the existing relationship between the player and Ajax trainer Míchel. Having worked together in Catalonia, the pair shares a tactical understanding that could prove decisive in negotiations. If Ajax can negotiate a fee significantly lower than the 25 million euro valuation, the transfer remains a distinct possibility.
The Role of Experience: Why Daley Blind Matters
Beyond new signings, current analysts suggest that leadership is the missing piece for Ajax. Hedwiges Maduro and Anco Jansen both highlighted the influence of Daley Blind during discussions on WK-Praat. Jansen pointed specifically to Blind’s performance in a 1-0 victory over Olympiakos, noting his composure on the ball was “not normal.”
Maduro added that Blind’s presence provides a “maturity” that was absent during the previous campaign. By providing vocal coaching from the back, Blind acts as a stabilizer for younger teammates. This focus on veteran leadership appears to be a core strategy for the club as they look to build a more resilient foundation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Azzedine Ounahi definitely joining Ajax? No. While there is interest and a connection to trainer Míchel, the 25 million euro release clause is currently considered too high for Ajax to pay in full.
- Why is Daley Blind important to the current squad? According to analysts Maduro and Jansen, Blind provides essential leadership and organizational skills from the back, which were identified as deficiencies during the previous season.
- What are Ounahi’s main strengths? Ali Boussaboun identifies his technical skills and ability to carry the ball as his primary assets, though he notes a need for greater tactical focus during matches.
What do you think of the current Ajax transfer strategy? Should the club prioritize technical flair or experienced leadership? Join the discussion in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on Eredivisie movements.