Bertrand Traoré: "It's important to take Ajax back to the top"

Bertrand Traoré, are you happy to be back at Ajax?

Bertrand Traoré: I'm happy to be back at Ajax. I only played here for one season, but it was, up to now, the best season of my career, with the best memories. I don't know why, but maybe it's because the club is special and so are the supporters. I had a really good connection with my team-mates. It's true that it's been a long time, but the good news is that I'm back. I have a good connection, a special connection with the fans. Maybe it's because I play an exciting game and the fans come to the stadium to see something entertaining. That's what I know how to do, and every time I'm on the pitch, I want to enjoy myself and give the fans enjoyment. That's what I'm going to try to do again during my stay.

Do you still think you're the same player as during your first spell?

Bertrand Traoré: I think I'm even better now. I'm more mature, more experienced. Maybe I've had a few injuries in recent seasons, but my time at Villarreal went very well for me. I spent half the season without an injury. I'm here, but not yet fit, because I have to work to get fit as we were on holiday. But I'm back as an even better player than during my previous spell.

Read also: Bertrand Traoré: "I only spent one year at Ajax, but it was the best season of my career"

Did you think about returning to Ajax?

I didn't know when or exactly how. But I felt I had unfinished business when I left Ajax. I had a very good season, I wouldn't say an incredible one, because we didn't win the league. We lost the title in the final rounds of the league campaign, and the UEFA Europa League final. It could have been an incredible season. But I feel it was unfinished. I'm happy to be back and to try to finish that unfinished business.

Did you contact people here at Ajax?

I spoke to Kenny before coming. I hope some of the old guard will do like me and come back. For me, it's a challenge. Ajax is the best Dutch club and one of the best in Europe. The club deserves to be at the top of the table. So it's a challenge for us now to try to bring the club back to where it should be.

What is your best memory of Ajax?

I have loads of good memories. As for the best, I'm torn between the semi-final against Lyon and the quarter-final second leg against Schalke. I don't know which one to pick. But those two moments are my best memories of Ajax.

What were the last two days before you signed like?

It was difficult to choose between Villarreal and Ajax. If I'd followed my heart, I would have come to Ajax easily. But Villarreal were a team who gave me the opportunity when I needed it. Because after the AFCON I wanted to play regularly. So they gave me that opportunity and they treated me well. I had a good relationship with the manager. They really wanted me to stay. So it was a bit difficult to choose. But as I said, with the heart the choice was inevitably Ajax. It was the best choice for me. I'm going to try to give my best. I hope we're going to achieve great things this season.

Have you already spoken to Ajax's new manager?

Yes, I've spoken to the new manager. I know him. I've never played under him before. But I know him and he's a great manager. He did a good job last season in France. I think we need that kind of manager. He's young but he has experience and positive energy. I believe it's good for what lies ahead.

What is your objective for the 2024-2025 season?

My objective for the season depends on the club's objectives. For me, it's important to take Ajax back to the top, meaning a return to the Champions League and winning trophies. That's what we're going to try to do as soon as possible, and especially this season. I can't wait to step out onto the pitch at our stadium, meet the supporters and play football.