Ouazane stakes claim for Ajax first team with two assists against Sion

Abdellah Ouazane strengthened his case for a permanent place in the Ajax first team by providing two assists in the Champions League play-off victory over FC Sion, with Morocco manager Mohamed Ouahbi watching from the stands.

The 17-year-old is officially still registered with the Ajax reserve side, but his performance at the Johan Cruijff Arena suggested he may not have to wait much longer for a promotion.

Ouazane has been given an opportunity on the left wing following Mika Godts’ move to Paris Saint-Germain and Ajax’s decision not to bring in a replacement. The position is not his preferred role, but he is ready to adapt if it gives him more opportunities in the first team.

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

Although he is more naturally suited to another position, the Ajax academy graduate produced several promising moments from the flank, particularly after the interval when he linked up with Brandt.

“I really found my rhythm in the second half. It is great to play with Brandt; he understands everything,” said Ouazane. “He knows when to play the ball to feet or into space, and he recognises the qualities of his team-mates.”

Ouazane is technically comfortable on the wing, but Ajax manager Michel has told him that he still needs to broaden his game. The teenager says he is working on those areas as he pursues his main ambition of becoming a permanent member of the senior squad.

“Officially, I am still with Jong, I am still in the Jong dressing room, that is where I shower and keep my things,” he said. “I have been training with the first team since pre-season, but I do not have a place in the dressing room yet. I have to earn it.

“I hope to receive a message soon; that is what everyone wants. It is special to play with the first team now, so I hope to get a place. But the fact that I am playing so many minutes shows that I am on the right track.”

Ouazane’s progress is also being followed closely in Morocco. Ouahbi attended Thursday’s match, although he has not yet spoken to the youngster.

“But the fact that he came to watch me play is significant,” Ouazane said.

The teenager has already made clear that he wants to represent Morocco at senior international level. He has discussed the decision with his parents and began his international career with the country’s Under-15 team.

“I have discussed it at length with my parents. I am open to all possibilities, but I am happy with my choice. My aim is to play for Morocco,” he said. “I started with the Under-15s, so it is really important to me that the national team manager comes to watch me play.”