Sofyan Amrabat reveals Jordi Cruijff’s patient approach behind Ajax move

Sofyan Amrabat has explained how a patient recruitment effort led to his move to Ajax. The midfielder told Voetbal International that Jordi Cruijff first contacted him in April, while Amrabat was still involved in the La Liga season with Real Betis.

Amrabat initially questioned whether a message from Cruijff was genuine, prompting the Ajax technical director to call him immediately. Their first conversation lasted around half an hour, after which the pair remained in contact. Amrabat also revealed that Cruijff had previously explored signing him while working at Barcelona, although that proposed transfer did not materialise.

Rather than pressing for an immediate decision, Cruijff set out his plans for Ajax and gradually built the midfielder’s interest. The Ajax head coach later spoke to Amrabat as well. The player said the club’s consistent communication left him in no doubt about how strongly he was wanted.

Amrabat believes his role will be to provide structure and balance, help teammates perform to their strengths and judge when Ajax need to increase or reduce the tempo. Although he has not played recently, he has continued training and says he is fit. He hopes to be involved against PSV next week but acknowledged that the final decision rests with the coach. Cruijff described the signing as a match for Ajax’s desired profile, highlighting Amrabat’s physical power, technical quality, international experience and familiarity with Dutch football.