the unpredictable return to the forefront of Bertrand Traoré

Some careers are more unpredictable than others. At the end of a high-flying 2016-2017 season with 13 goals in 39 matches with Ajax Amsterdam, Bertrand Traoré seemed destined for a radiant career in Europe. Finally, after a transfer worth 10 million euros to OL and a successful first season between Saône and Rhône, the right winger of the 1995 generation had lost track of his promising start to his career. Joining Aston Villa in 2020, the Burkinabe international (74 caps, 17 goals) gave a second wind to his career with the Villans.

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And after a mixed experience at Istanbul Basaksehir, the left-hander was loaned last winter to Villarreal. A first experience in Spain which allowed the native of Bobo-Dioulasso to regain color. Considered a starter in the Yellow Submarine squad, the former Chelsea player was unable to continue his romance with the Spanish team. But when he became free after the end of his lease linking him to Aston Villa, the Burkinabé aroused a lot of desire. Finally, the latter gave in to the sirens of one of his former loves: Ajax Amsterdam.

6 goals and 4 assists in 19 matches with Ajax Amsterdam for Bertrand Traoré

Arriving for free in the Dutch capital, the former AJ Auxerre prodigy aimed to continue and regain his former level. In his interview upon arrival at Ajax, the former Gone explained that he had not finished his mission with the residents of the Johan-Cruyff stadium: “These last few days have been too passive for me, because I had to decide between continuing with Villarreal or returning to Ajax Amsterdam. If I had to follow my heart, without thinking I would of course choose Ajax. But Villarreal is the club that gave me the opportunity to get back on track after my injury. After the CAN, I needed enough playing time. So, I terminated my contract and signed for Villarreal. The leaders of Villarreal treated me well, I was well received by the group. I had a very good end to the season and I had a good relationship with my coach. The club really wanted me to stay. I thank them for their love. I ended up choosing Ajax and I believe it is the best choice for me. I haven't finished my work with Ajax Amsterdam.»

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A risky bet but one which, for the moment, the former OL number 10 is taking on brilliantly. Considered an important member of the Ajacide squad, the winger has regained total confidence in his game and is enjoying his time in the Amsterdam tunic. While he can count on the confidence of Francesco Farioli, Traoré returns it to the former Nice coach. Author of 6 goals and 4 assists in 19 appearances with Ajax, the 29-year-old striker has scored two goals in his last three matches. Spared by injuries, the one who was criticized in Lyon is silencing his detractors and his great experience brings a lot to a relatively young Dutch group. Particularly decisive in the Europa League with two goals and an assist in seven appearances, number 20 could be one of Ajax's lethal weapons this season on the European scene. And we must hope for Lyon that it does not cross its path in the semi-final of the competition in case the reminiscences of this famous Dutch evening of May 2017 could come back to the surface…