Mohammed Kudus: The Ajax sensation wanted by Man Utd and Barcelona

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 27 Jan 2023 16:18 GMT
• 3 min read

It’s not been the best season for Ajax.

The influx of talent that departed them over the summer wasn’t replaced. Their manager at the time, Erik ten Hag, even flew the coop.

Last night, after the club’s dour 1-1 draw with Volendam, their manager Alfred Schreuder was sacked, just eight months after he replaced the current Manchester United boss.

One silver lining from the game was Mohammed Kudus’ goal late on: a well-hit strike with his left boot which flew into the net at the goalkeeper Dejan Stankovic’s near side.

It wasn’t a goal that has boosted Kudus’ profile into the stratosphere - he has been linked with a vast number of European clubs before - but it did remind some that Ajax still possesses one of the most exciting young midfield talents out there.

It might be considered a slight on Ajax to presume that all of their best stars will leave the side to greener pastures - but the football landscape has changed in such a way that scenarios like this are inevitable.

Barcelona have been linked to the Ghanian, as too have Manchester United, as well as Liverpool and Arsenal.

The 22-year-old is attracting interest from all over - but Ajax will surely want to hedge their bets a bit more before letting any star player leave without filling the void left by them.

Kudus - the versatile attacker

Kudus, who scored twice for Ghana in the World Cup, is a versatile player who is able to play in almost all positions in midfield and attack.

He is adept at progressing play by taking on his opponent and carrying the ball forward - while inside the box too, he poses a threat.

Kudus has sublime shooting technique and is able to hit with his left with great power and accuracy.

He’s scored 11 goals in 24 games in all competitions already this season and has arguably been Ajax’s best player this campaign.

Kudus’ non-penalty xG is 0.81 and is in the top 99 percentile, as is his progressing passes is 3.33 per 90 which is also in the top 99 percentile.

The youngster is a young talent who seemingly has it all - and it will be one to watch for the summer, most certainly.