We conducted an exclusive interview with one of the current Ajax academy top scorers: Julian Rijkhoff!
1) How did you experience the Corona-period? You started the season very well, but was it difficult for everyone to start after that period?
- I can’t complain at all about my current form. It was difficult at the beginning, but it was difficult for everyone. Cardio and daily routine were the most difficult things after a few months. But I worked hard for school during that period, because that was the only thing left after all competitions were cancelled. I also trained hard for myself to stay fit and become stronger. I have noticed a significant difference already, so I’m thankful for everyone who worked with me on that part.
2) You have played with a lot of teammates for many years now. How is it to play for so long together as a group?
- We have a very good group. We enjoy playing with each other and we show it too, I think. Together as a team we can all come far, but we have to keep working hard for it every week of course.
3) What do you hope to achieve this season?
- We want to become champions and win all trophies we can win this season, of course. Individually, I want to develop myself further, as that is the most important thing in the academy.
4) What’s it like for you to play at Ajax for such a long time?
- It’s becoming more and more serious. Now I play for the U17’s already. You have to work hard every day and show the best of yourself. I’m very happy that I can still continue my dream here.”
5) What do you want to improve as a striker?
- I can do a lot of things better, of course. I can improve my heading abilities, for example. I also want to improve my left foot, so it becomes almost as good as my right one. These are a few things I hope to improve this season.”
6) In the academy, youth teams play a lot of tournaments across Europe. It is always great to follow. What memories do you have when looking back on these tournaments?
- We played so many great tournaments, especially in the younger teams. I remember some tournaments in France, Spain and Portugal with the U10’s. We played against Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and other great teams. Time flies. I enjoyed these tournaments a lot. When I watch some old clips back from it I can still enjoy it. I also look forward to the Future Cup already! I hope it will be organized this year and that fans are allowed to come. It is such an improvement to the atmosphere during football games. But for now, my focus will be on my own development and on winning the title with the team, of course!
7) You scored a lot of beautiful goals for Ajax and the National Team during the years. Do you have a favourite one?
- Haha, I agree. I scored a lot of beautiful goals: Vitesse [U15], NEC [U17] and Feyenoord [U16], for example. But every goal counts to me. I enjoyed the way I scored my 2nd goal against Heerenveen U17 [0–5, 23.09] last week a lot. It was a great attack from the team and my positioning was close to perfect.
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