Daley Blind bid farewell to Ajax fans through an emotional match. The Orange international also pointed to the unjustified criticism that he received.
“With pain in my heart and tears in my eyes I have to say goodbye to you and the club,” Blind begins his farewell story. “Playing for Ajax is the best thing there is!
“It hasn’t always been pleasant,” The Orange international points to the criticism addressed to him. “Amsterdammers are often direct and demanding. That is also allowed, I like that and that is why I can be honest with you. We have a special relationship together, but it wasn’t always easy for me,” he added.
Blind sometimes felt mistreated, “Sometimes I had the feeling that I was playing against some of you and sometimes that I was criticized just a little faster than many other players. I don’t know if my feelings are right. Maybe not. Some will understand me, some won’t. But no, it’s certainly not the reason for my goodbye. I am grateful to you.
“This is not how I imagined my end at Ajax, but due to ‘circumstances’ it turned out that way. I hope the right time will come to say goodbye to you. Make sure Ajax stays Ajax. You are Ajax. And so never forget: We are Ajax. We are the best!” he concluded.
Blind’s journey with the club
Blind already played for Ajax between 2008 and 2014; after four years at Manchester United, he returned in the summer of 2018. In total, he played 333 matches for Ajax, scoring 13 times and providing 21 assists. The veteran became champion in Amsterdam no fewer than seven times. Only Sjaak Swart and Johan Cruijff (both eight) celebrated more national titles with Ajax, Opta calculated.
Blind also won the TOTO KNVB Cup twice and the Johan Cruijff Shield just as often. In addition to those team prizes, he also won individual honorary titles. Blind was voted Ajax Player of the Year after the 2012/13 season and he won the Golden Shoe in the Eredivisie a year later. As a youngster in 2008, he was also voted the greatest talent in the training.
It is no secret that Van Bommel and Overmars have the transfer-free Orange international in their sights. The trainer and technical director would like to add the veteran to the selection of Antwerp. However, another option is already in the picture: Real Sociedad, the current number three of La Liga. Blind could play there with, among others, David Silva and Alexander Sörloth.
