Sofyan Amrabat starts Ajax adventure as brother Nordin seeks Eredivisie chance

Ajax have signed Morocco international Sofyan Amrabat after he agreed to end his contract with Fenerbahce, while his brother Nordin is attempting to earn an opportunity at FC Utrecht.

Sofyan Amrabat was officially presented by Ajax before attending Sunday’s match between FC Utrecht and PSV at Stadion Galgenwaard. His 39-year-old brother is currently maintaining his fitness with the Utrecht-based club.

The move brings an end to Ajax’s lengthy search for a player to fill the number six position. Amrabat agreed to terminate his Fenerbahce contract on Saturday, allowing the Amsterdam club to sign him without a transfer fee.

Amrabat had previously revealed that he had been in contact with Ajax technical director Jordi Cruyff for some time. The midfielder said Cruyff had outlined his plans for the club before Ajax’s head coach also spoke to him.

“He told me about his project for Ajax. It was a beautiful story. We immediately had a pleasant conversation of about half an hour. He explained to me what he intended to do with Ajax. That sparked my curiosity. The coach also called me afterwards. And that was equally positive. In short, it was clear that Ajax wanted me. That is very important to me. I am someone who is loyal and I want to honour that trust.”

Amrabat’s arrival provides Ajax with an experienced option in midfield as the club seeks to strengthen its squad. The Morocco international has now joined the Dutch side after his agreement with Fenerbahce was brought to an early conclusion.

His move to Ajax also places the focus on whether he could be reunited in the Eredivisie with his older brother. Nordin Amrabat is hoping to convince FC Utrecht that he can still contribute at the top level of Dutch football, although it has not yet been decided whether he will play for the club.

The former Morocco international has said the immediate priority is to secure regular action rather than demand a starting place. He also believes he can offer Utrecht flexibility in wide positions or as a wing-back.

“The coach wants to see how things develop over two weeks. The important thing is to get playing time. If I play, I want to play. I am not asking for a starting place. The wingers are also Utrecht’s strengths. The coach also sees me as a wing-back… In any case, I am still quick enough for that,” Amrabat said on the Dutch television programme Rondo.

A decision on Nordin Amrabat’s future is expected after the assessment period, while Sofyan Amrabat has already begun his new chapter with Ajax.