Chuba Akpom Chooses to Stay at "Ajax": Strategy and Team Success

"Ajax" Returns to Glory: Chuba Akpom's Role in the Team's Success

When Chuba Akpom opted to remain at "Ajax", despite offers from other clubs, his decision was fraught with a degree of uncertainty. The "Arsenal" academy graduate, awaiting a call-up to Nigeria's Super Eagles, joined "Ajax" in August of last year, bringing along a reputation carved by his vital contributions to "Middlesbrough" during their Championship playoff campaign in the 2022/2023 season.

His remarkable feat of 28 goals in England's second tier earned him numerous prestigious accolades, including the PFA Championship Player of the Year, EFL Championship Player of the Season, and the Golden Boot. Despite solid performances in the Netherlands, Akpom became surplus to "Ajax's" requirements after making 31 appearances across the Eredivisie and UEFA Europa League, contributing 14 goals and three assists.

Though rumors circulated about his departure, no move ultimately materialized. Akpom's decision to stay was undoubtedly risky, given the club's struggles last season and the allure of possible transfers elsewhere. However, with the arrival of coach Francesco Farioli and a shift in team fortunes, his choice increasingly resembles a calculated risk that is paying off.

Under Farioli's guidance, "Ajax" is climbing back to prominence, with Akpom's contributions proving crucial. He admitted in an interview, "I was open to a good offer, but at the same time I didn't necessarily want to leave. And now I'm glad I stayed. It feels like "Ajax" is coming back a bit."

Last season, "Ajax" struggled for consistency, failing to finish in the Eredivisie top two for the first time in over a decade. Akpom's tally of 17 goal involvements was commendable, but the team's overall stagnation overshadowed his individual accomplishments. This season, however, "Ajax" appears rejuvenated under Farioli: his aggressive, high-tempo philosophy resonates with players like Akpom.

With six goals and one assist in 19 games, Akpom is thriving as a key attacking threat, helping lift "Ajax" to third in the Eredivisie and boosting their strong Europa League run, where they sit second in their group, just two points shy of leaders "Lazio". The trajectory appears promising for both the player and the club.