Bertrand Traoré discusses his return to Ajax and his brief tenure at Villarreal

Bertrand Traoré has officially rejoined Ajax Amsterdam, signing a two-year contract until June 2026. In an interview with Ajax TV, the Burkinabe international shared his thoughts on returning to the Dutch club and reflected on his brief but impactful stint at Villarreal.

Traoré, the captain of the Burkina Faso national team, revealed that the decision to leave Villarreal and return to Ajax was a challenging one.

“The last few days have been too pensive for me, because I had to decide between continuing with Villarreal or returning to Ajax Amsterdam.

If I had to follow my heart, without thinking I would of course choose Ajax. But Villarreal is the club that gave me the opportunity to get back on track after my injury,” he explained.

This marks Traoré’s second spell with Ajax, following a successful loan during the 2016/17 season. Now 28, Traoré brings more experience and ambition to the team.

He described his return as a significant challenge and a mission to help Ajax reclaim its position as a top Dutch club. “It’s a big challenge for me. Ajax is one of the best Dutch clubs.

The club deserves to play a leading role. It’s a challenge for us to bring the club to its best level. My best memory at Ajax Amsterdam is especially my match against Lyon in the Europa League,” he recalled.

Traoré expressed deep gratitude to Villarreal, where he had a productive six-month period after leaving Aston Villa last winter. “After the AFCON, I needed enough playing time. So, I broke my contract and signed for Villarreal.

The Villarreal management treated me well, I was well received by the group. I had a very good end to the season and I had a good relationship with my coach. The club really wanted me to stay. I thank them for their love,” he said.

Despite the positive experience at Villarreal, Traoré ultimately decided that returning to Ajax was the best move for his career. “I ended up choosing Ajax and I think it was the best choice for me,” he concluded.

Traoré’s return to Ajax is seen as a major boost for the team. With his skills, experience, and leadership, he is expected to play a crucial role in the club’s quest to regain its dominance in Dutch football and make a mark in European competitions.

Ajax fans will be eager to see how Traoré’s return will influence the team’s performance in the upcoming seasons. His previous stint left a lasting impression, and supporters hope he will replicate and exceed those achievements as he dons the Ajax jersey once again.