Zakaria Ouazane is leaving Ajax, as he announced in an Instagram post on Tuesday. Mike Verweij of De Telegraaf reported on Monday that the brother of Abdellah Ouazane, who is currently making a big impression in pre-season, is joining the youth academy of FC Twente and Heracles Almelo.
"After eleven wonderful years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to the club that has been much more to me than just a place to play sport. What began with a nine-year-old boy stepping on to the pitch full of enthusiasm grew into a period full of valuable experiences, friendships and wonderful memories that I will cherish forever," the departing striker writes on Instagram.
In his words of thanks, Zakaria Ouazane admits the choice was not straightforward. "This decision was certainly not easy, as Ajax have always been an important part of my life," Zakaria Ouazane emphasises. "I want to thank everyone who has supported me over the years – from coaches and team-mates to the staff. You have all contributed to my development, both on and off the pitch, and helped me grow as a person."
He ends his message to Ajax supporters by saying: "Ajax will always hold a special place in my heart and I look back with great gratitude on the time I have spent here. I wish the club and everyone involved all the very best for the future," the Ajax player concludes his message to Ajax supporters.
Last season, Zakaria Ouazane made 13 appearances for Jong Ajax in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie, partly because of frequent injury problems. He scored once.
Last year, the forward looked set to join Real Madrid, but the move did not happen. His contract with Ajax ran until the summer of 2027.