Ronald de Boer backs Ajax teenager Abdellah Ouazane for bright future
The former Ajax player praised the 17-year-old attacking midfielder’s ability and mentality, while Wim Kieft urged him not to leave the Netherlands too soon.
Ronald de Boer has expressed his excitement about the development of Ajax attacking midfielder Abdellah Ouazane. Speaking on Ziggo Sport before Ajax’s Conference League meeting with FC Midtjylland, De Boer highlighted both the 17-year-old’s technical qualities and his attitude.
De Boer previously coached Ouazane at under-16 level and recalled that the youngster was already operating beyond the standard of his age group. According to Voetbalzone, De Boer said his performances left him wondering: “What are you doing here?” He described Ouazane as an exceptional talent who could run past opponents, including the goalkeeper, during youth matches.
The former Ajax player nevertheless stressed that early promise does not guarantee that Ouazane will become a player at the very highest level. De Boer was also impressed by the teenager’s personality, calling him self-critical and noting that he is prepared to acknowledge when he has played badly. He believes Ouazane has the attributes required to provide Ajax supporters with plenty of enjoyment in the coming years.
Fellow pundit Wim Kieft agreed with De Boer’s positive assessment but focused on the player’s longer-term path. Kieft said he hopes Ouazane remains in the Netherlands for several more years, suggesting that two strong seasons could be enough to prompt a departure. His preference would be for the midfielder to build strength and accumulate extensive first-team experience before pursuing a move elsewhere.
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