Abdellah Ouazane pushes for Ajax first-team place after impressive display

Abdellah Ouazane is continuing to push for a permanent place in Ajax’s first team after the 17-year-old impressed during the club’s Champions League play-off against FC Sion.

The Morocco youth international remains officially registered with Ajax’s reserve side, but his increasing involvement with the senior team has strengthened his hopes of making the step up permanently.

Under the watch of Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi, Ouazane produced an influential performance during the play-off, with his display attracting further attention in his homeland.

The teenager has also been given an opportunity on the left wing following Mika Godts’ move to Paris Saint-Germain, with Ajax yet to find a replacement. Although the position is not Ouazane’s preferred role, he is prepared to adapt to take advantage of the opportunity.

“I’m happy to be able to play; I’m still young and I have to work hard, I have no choice. When you see who plays at number 10, the competition is tough with Julian Brandt and Oscar Gloukh. So I’ll seize my chance as a left winger, if I have the opportunity to play there,” Ouazane told VI in the mixed zone after the match.

Ouazane showed his technical ability from the wing and was particularly effective after half-time, when he linked up with Brandt.

“I really found my rhythm in the second half. It’s great playing with Brandt; he understands everything. He knows when to make a pass with his feet or into space, and he recognizes the qualities of his teammates.”

While comfortable in the wide position, Ouazane knows there are still areas of his game that need improvement.

Coach Míchel has told the youngster that he must continue developing, something the academy graduate is working towards as he attempts to secure a permanent place with the senior squad.

For now, however, he remains part of Jong Ajax.

“Officially, I’m still at Jong, I’m still in the Jong dressing room, that’s where I shower and keep my things. I’ve been training with the first team since preseason, but I don’t have a place in the dressing room yet. I have to earn it. I hope to get a message soon; that’s what everyone wants. It’s special to be playing with the first team now, so I hope to get a spot. But the fact that I’m playing this many minutes indicates that I’m on the right track.”

Ouazane’s progress is also being closely followed in Morocco. Mohamed Ouahbi was present at the Johan Cruijff Arena to watch him play, although the pair have not yet spoken.

“But the fact that he came to see me play is significant.”

The teenager has made his international preference clear, having discussed the matter with his parents and expressing his desire to represent Morocco.

“I discussed it at length with my parents. I’m open to all possibilities, but I’m happy with my choice. My goal is to play for Morocco. I started in the U15s, so it’s really important to me that the national team coach comes to watch me play.”

With his first-team involvement increasing, Ouazane now has a clear target: earn his place in Ajax’s senior dressing room and continue progressing towards becoming a regular first-team player.