Ziyech calls for Ajax to get title, laments leaving without proper goodbye

Ajax and AZ Alkmaar finished level on points in the Eredivisie standings before the COVID-19 stalemate. The Dutch federation has left the title vacant, something Hakim Ziyech disagrees with.

"Now that there's no football, they're getting crazier every day. Like that argument about whether Ajax or AZ should be champions. What a load of nonsense, we're on top. Those stories about whether AZ deserves more because they beat us twice are nonsense. Now the goal difference doesn't count anymore? It's a lie, of course. How did PSV win the league in 2007? Exactly, by one goal," he explained in 'AD'.

The Dutch winger was emphatic: "It's true that we're not officially champions. I would have preferred it to be decided on the pitch too, but if you have to choose a champion, that's Ajax."

Ziyech will not be able to say goodbye on the pitch in this way. "I don't like the love of a club, kissing the shield. I don't do that kind of thing. That's who I am, and don't pretend otherwise. Now, I admit that Ajax will always have a special place for me. They've let me be myself in Amsterdam with a lot of nice people around. As a player I have also become more complete," he said.

"It's become my club. My departure would have been otherwise, but the memories will remain. The last season with the League and especially the Champions League. How we surprised everyone with our game. I think everyone feels we left a legacy at Ajax," he added.

Finally, Ziyech spoke of his arrival at Chelsea. "My signature is on the contract and I've been a Chelsea player since July 1st. I've never thought about anything else. It all depends on when the countries are going to open up again and be able to play safely again. Then there's the competition. That doesn't depend on me, I'll see about that when the time comes.