Nigerian striker Chuba Akpom has voiced doubts regarding his tenure at Ajax beyond the current season.
Akpom has primarily been featured as a substitute this season. However, the former Arsenal scholar was given a starting opportunity in the match against FC Volendam (1-4). He capitalised on this chance by scoring his eleventh goal of the Premier League season shortly after halftime.
The 28-year-old striker has scored 15 goals and provided two assists in 34 matches for the club across various competitions, although the majority of these contributions have occurred intermittently.
Akpom is currently performing impressively for Ajax, having scored five goals and provided one assist in his last six matches.
He has experienced a notable uptick in playing time lately. Nonetheless, there has been considerable speculation regarding the future of the former Arsenal player due to his challenges at the club.
Chuba Akpom on Ajax win: Prioritising team success amidst uncertainty
Chuba Akpom reflected on his team's recent victory over Volendam in an interview with ESPN as per Ajax Life. Akpom expressed his satisfaction with the win, accentuating the importance of scoring goals and securing three points for the team.
He highlighted his dedication to giving his best effort whether he starts or comes off the bench, emphasising his commitment to following the coach's instructions.
Regarding his future at the club, Akpom remained uncertain, prioritising enjoyment in football and focusing on the upcoming matches.
Despite his personal performance, he underscored the importance of the team's triumph and expressed regret over the missed chance to maintain a clean sheet.
Akpom also mentioned the team's tactical adjustments during the game and expressed his delight in returning to top fitness after overcoming injuries.
“Scoring and getting three points. Then you can talk about a great afternoon,” Akpom responded, highlighting the importance of the team's performance.
Discussing his position within the team, he said, “That's difficult, but I try to do it as professionally as possible. Whether I start or come off the bench, I always do my best.”
Akpom remained unsure about the coach's future decisions, saying, “I don't know if the coach will choose this way of playing more often. I follow the instructions. When I play, I give 110 percent.
“I don't know what the club wants. For me, the most important thing is to have fun in football. It doesn't matter where.”
Despite uncertainties, he focused on the upcoming matches, stating, “There are still two regular competition matches to be played. Then we'll look further. I cannot predict the future. For now, the three points are the most important.”
Evaluating the team's performance, Akpom acknowledged, “I think we played a good game. We scored good goals, but it's a shame we didn't keep a clean sheet. However, the three points are the most important. We played a little more directly then, with a little more pressure on the ball.”
On a personal note, Akpom expressed his satisfaction with returning from injury, stating, “It feels good to be back. Injuries are always frustrating. I have trained well in recent weeks. I wanted to be sure that I would be top fit again when I returned.”
What does the future hold for Akpom?
In the midst of widespread speculation, the outlook for Chuba Akpom remains unclear, with rumours circulating about a potential comeback to England in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Luton Town, Everton, and Nottingham Forest have all surfaced as potential destinations competing to secure his services.
The possibility of Akpom returning to his native country has sparked conversations among football fans, who are considering the potential influence he could bring to any of these clubs.
With a speculated price tag ranging between €12-15 million, Akpom's potential move presents an enticing prospect for any interested club.
Akpom joined Ajax from Middlesbrough August last year.
Will Akpom rely on Finidi's Ajax link to secure Super Eagles debut?
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Chuba Akpom stands at a crossroads in his international football career.
Despite his history of representing England at the youth level, Akpom's eligibility to play for Nigeria's Super Eagles remains, sparking uncertainty about his international future.
In March 28, 2017, reports suggested Akpom was close to joining the Nigerian national team, alongside Nottingham Forest's Ola Aina, after discussions with Amaju Pinnick, the former President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
In September 2019, he affirmed his intention to play for the Super Eagles . Speaking to BBC Sport, Akpom expressed, “It was a personal choice. I identify strongly with Nigeria, as does my entire family, and it would be a great honour to represent my country.”
Considering that the new Super Eagles manager, Finidi George, has previously featured for Ajax, could this connection be the catalyst for Akpom's debut with the Super Eagles?
