Ajax sign Sofyan Amrabat on two-year deal after Fenerbahçe exit

Ajax have completed the signing of Sofyan Amrabat on a contract running until the summer of 2028. The 30-year-old midfielder joins on a free transfer after his agreement with Fenerbahçe was terminated at the end of August.

The Amsterdam club had been seeking an experienced player for the number-six role following Jordan Henderson’s departure in 2025. Technical director Jordi Cruijff said Amrabat’s physical strength, ability on the ball and international experience made him the profile Ajax wanted. Cruijff also expects the midfielder’s knowledge of Dutch football to help him settle quickly, according to Voetbalzone.

Amrabat returns to the Eredivisie eight years after leaving Feyenoord for Club Brugge. He came through at FC Utrecht before moving to Rotterdam in 2017, and later represented Hellas Verona, Fiorentina, Manchester United, Fenerbahçe and Real Betis. He arrives with 63 Eredivisie appearances and 78 Morocco caps.

The new signing said Ajax’s interest had been clear since Cruijff first contacted him in April. Amrabat also held positive talks with coach Míchel and said he wanted to repay the confidence shown in him. He considers himself fit and is eager to play, although he acknowledged that the decision over his debut rests with the coach.

Not everyone is convinced by the fit. Speaking on De Oranjezomer, Nicky van der Gijp praised Amrabat’s strength and defensive qualities but questioned whether he provides the level of distribution Ajax had sought. He described him as an excellent defensive midfielder, while arguing that he is not an outstanding footballer, FCUpdate reported.