Striker Akpom Reflects on Challenging Start at Dutch Giants

Chuba Akpom, the former Arsenal star, has spoken candidly about his time at Ajax, describing it as a "catastrophe." The 28-year-old striker joined the Dutch club in a surprising £10.5 million transfer from Middlesbrough during the summer. However, Akpom has struggled to settle in at his new team, with Ajax currently sitting 11th in the Eredivisie after a string of losses at the start of the season.

Rebuilding and Personal Struggles

Ajax's poor form saw them drop to the bottom of the league at one point. However, the team has begun to turn things around with consecutive victories in recent weeks. Akpom has played a crucial role in these wins, scoring three goals off the bench. After a recent game, the striker admitted that he had not felt settled at the club and had been struggling both personally and as part of the team.

Akpom Finds Support in New Manager

Akpom's upturn in form coincided with a change in management at Ajax. Maurice Steijn was sacked in October and replaced by John Van 't Schip. Akpom praised his new boss for taking the time to speak with him about his life outside of football, showing a human touch that he greatly appreciated. Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new country, environment, and team, Akpom remains determined to stay professional and keep working hard.

High Expectations and Impressive Resume

Expectations were high for Akpom following his move from Middlesbrough, as he had a standout season in the Championship, finishing as the league's top scorer with 28 goals in 38 appearances. The striker, who came through Arsenal's academy, has also had loan spells at various clubs including Brentford, Coventry, and Nottingham Forest. Akpom spent two years in Greece with PAOK before joining Middlesbrough in 2020.