Ajax celebrates Abdelhak Nouri on 29th birthday

AFC Ajax paid a heartfelt tribute to former midfielder Abdelhak Nouri on what would have been his 29th birthday, reaffirming the deep and lasting connection between the club and one of its most cherished talents.

In a touching message shared across their official social media platforms, Ajax simply wrote, “Today marks your 29th birthday… you are always in our thoughts,” a brief yet powerful reminder that Nouri remains firmly in the hearts of the Amsterdam club and its supporters.

Born in Amsterdam in 1997 to Moroccan parents, Nouri, affectionately known as “Appie,” joined the Ajax youth system at just seven years old.

He rose through the ranks at the club’s famed academy, De Toekomst, where his remarkable vision, technical brilliance, and humility set him apart.

Widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects of his generation, he developed alongside talents such as Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt.

His promising career was tragically halted on July 8, 2017, during a pre-season friendly against Werder Bremen in Austria, when he collapsed on the pitch due to cardiac arrhythmia.

A delayed medical response, particularly in the use of a defibrillator, led to severe and permanent brain damage, changing the course of his life and sending shockwaves through the football world.

After spending nearly three years in a coma, Nouri regained consciousness in March 2020 and returned home to continue his recovery under the care of his family. As of 2026, he remains in a state of low consciousness and requires round-the-clock care, with his family noting that he communicates in limited but meaningful ways, including subtle facial expressions when watching football or interacting with loved ones.

Despite his absence from the game, Nouri’s influence continues to resonate deeply. The number 34 has become a powerful symbol associated with his legacy, embraced by players and fans across Europe. Former teammates such as Justin Kluivert, Donny van de Beek, and Sofyan Amrabat have all paid tribute by wearing his number at various stages of their careers.

His tragic story also led to significant changes in football’s medical protocols, with stricter measures introduced to ensure the availability of advanced cardiac equipment and faster emergency response during matches.

Although Ajax reached a €7.85 million settlement with his family in 2022 after acknowledging shortcomings in the on-field medical response, Nouri’s story transcends legal outcomes. In Amsterdam and beyond, he remains a beloved figure whose legacy embodies both the beauty of football and the fragility of life.