Bertrand Traoré made an impact off the bench as Ajax Amsterdam were held to a 1-1 draw by Danish side AGF Aarhus in a pre-season friendly on Saturday.
The Burkinabe forward was introduced at the start of the second half and played a pivotal role in Ajax’s equaliser, supplying the assist that ensured the Dutch side avoided defeat.
His contribution capped off a solid display that highlighted the confidence and sharpness he developed during the previous campaign.
Traoré, who hails from Bobo-Dioulasso, has enjoyed a strong return to form at Ajax. The 2024/25 season saw the 29-year-old feature in 32 Eredivisie matches, registering six goals and five assists.
His consistent performances throughout the campaign have reinforced his position within the squad, and he is expected to play a central role for the Amsterdam club in the coming season.
The pre-season fixture against AGF Aarhus offered Ajax the opportunity to test tactical options ahead of the new league campaign. Despite falling behind, the Dutch side showed resilience and composure, with Traoré’s introduction in the second half injecting much-needed creativity into the final third.
His assist underscored his ability to influence the game, even in limited minutes, and provided another example of his growing importance under the club’s current setup.
Contracted to Ajax until June 2026, Traoré remains a key figure in the team’s attacking plans. The forward is currently valued at €8 million and commands an annual salary of €2.5 million.
His market value reflects his experience and technical qualities, which Ajax continue to rely on as they pursue domestic and European ambitions.
Traoré’s career has taken him through several top leagues in Europe, including spells in England with Chelsea and Aston Villa, and in France with Olympique Lyonnais. His current spell with Ajax has seen him rediscover his best form, blending flair and maturity in his game.
The former CAF Young Player of the Year has also been a stalwart for Burkina Faso’s national team, affectionately known as the Stallions, contributing significantly to their recent successes on the continental stage.
As Ajax continue their preparations for the new season, Traoré’s performance in the friendly suggests he is physically and mentally ready to lead from the front.
With his combination of experience, technical ability, and eye for goal, the 29-year-old remains one of the key players expected to drive Ajax’s ambitions over the next twelve months.
The match against AGF Aarhus may have been a low-stakes affair, but Traoré’s assist served as a reminder of his attacking instincts and ability to deliver when called upon.
For Ajax, it was a glimpse of what could be a fruitful season ahead with the Burkinabe forward in full stride.
