Ajax striker Chuba Akpom has expressed his desire for more regular playing time and has indicated that his future at the club hinges on receiving assurances from the manager. Akpom, who joined Ajax from Middlesbrough in a €12 million deal last year, is eager to contribute on the field and believes that increased involvement in games is crucial for his decision to stay with the club for another season.
The 28-year-old striker had a challenging start to his time at Ajax, with limited opportunities to showcase his abilities. Often confined to the bench during the first half of the season, Akpom had to wait patiently for his chances. However, his situation improved in the latter part of the campaign, where he demonstrated his potential by scoring 15 goals and providing three assists in 35 appearances across various competitions.
In an interview with NOS, Akpom stated, “I don’t think I can sit on the bench as a second striker for another year. If I’m more involved in games this year, I’d like to stay here. If not, it might be time to look elsewhere.” His comments highlight the desire for regular playing time and the importance of being an integral part of the team’s plans.
Despite having four years remaining on his contract with Ajax Amsterdam, the club is reportedly open to the possibility of letting Akpom leave if the right offers come in. This suggests that they understand the importance of providing playing time to a player of his caliber and the potential consequences of not meeting his expectations.
Akpom emphasized the need to focus on football and not let off-pitch distractions affect his performance. He acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future, stating, “I don’t know if I’ll still be here next week or by the end of the transfer window, but every day I come to the club, I train as if I’ll be staying here this season.” This mindset reflects his professionalism and dedication to giving his best regardless of the circumstances.
The striker’s impressive performances have reportedly attracted interest from clubs in England, France, and Italy. This demonstrates that his talent has not gone unnoticed, and there may be potential suitors if he decides to explore other options.
For Ajax, it is essential to carefully consider Akpom’s request for more playing time. With his proven ability to find the back of the net and contribute to the team’s success, ensuring his involvement could be crucial for the club’s aspirations. Balancing the demands of multiple competitions and managing squad depth will be a challenge for the manager, but providing Akpom with the opportunities he seeks could potentially lead to a productive and fruitful partnership.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether Ajax can meet Akpom’s desire for regular playing time or if he will explore other opportunities. The resolution of this situation will undoubtedly impact both the player and the club, shaping the path they choose to take in the upcoming season.
