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Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus shares 'disappointment' at blocked Everton summer move
Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus admitted that his blocked move to Everton last summer “disappointed” him because of his lack of game-time in Amsterdam.
The Ghanaian international was a top target for the Toffees last summer, with Netherlands outlet De Telegraaf [31 August] reporting that personal terms had already been agreed upon between the Ghanaian international and the Blues ahead of a late move.
However, the Dutch giants blocked the move after having already sold both Lisandro Martinez and Antony to Manchester United and Kudus reportedly refused to turn up for training as a result.
Reflecting on the failed move, Kudus told De Telegraaf [18 March] that he was “disappointed” the club blocked his move to Goodison but in hindsight, the talented midfielder admits it was a “positive decision” as he is currently flourishing in Amsterdam.
He said: “The fact that Ajax blocked a transfer to Everton last summer disappointed me. I thought it was time for a new chapter in my career because I didn’t play here.
“But the moment the transfer market closed, my full focus was back on Ajax. The only reason I wanted to leave before that was my reserve role.
“I eliminated that reason myself. Everton are not doing well in the Premier League, Ajax is in the championship race and under John Heitinga, I am a permanent fixture.
“I have a strong faith in God and he has made the positive decision for me not to let the transfer go through.”
Correct decision
From Kudus’ point of view, he certainly made the right choice considering the sensational campaign he is enjoying in Amsterdam. The Ghanaian can have no regrets about the club’s decision to block the move as who knows what might have been had he joined the Toffees last summer.
He probably won’t be considered one of the most talented attacking midfielders in the game like he is now. Everton’s failed move was a huge blow for him at the time because of his lack of game time, but it was a decision which proved crucial for his career trajectory.
With the Toffees currently steeped in another needless relegation battle and Ajax battling for Dutch Eredivisie gold again, Kudus can look back on the club’s decision with joy.
And this should provide Everton with the lessons they need in the future. If they want to acquire top young footballers beyond this campaign, they must fix the mess that is surrounding the Toffees from top to bottom. The club will need to return to those lofty top-eight finishes if they are to sign some of the best talents in the sport.
It’s going to take a massive job for both the much-maligned Everton board and Sean Dyche to get to those lofty positions again.