Jordi Cruijff has opened up on Mika Godts' departure from Ajax during the summer transfer window.
Mika Godts departed Ajax this summer to move to reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
During negotiations, various reports claimed that Ajax were seeking a transfer fee in excess of €60 million. In the end, the two clubs reached a compromise, agreeing on a transfer fee of €55 million: €45 million guaranteed plus €10 million in potential add-ons.
Godts moved to Ajax from Belgian side Genk in the winter of 2023. He was exceptional last season, scoring 17 goals and registering 15 assists in all competitions. That is even more impressive when you take into account that he was a young player playing in a very dysfunctional team.
Following Godts' departure, Ajax held talks over a deal to sign Noa Lang to replace the Belgian winger. Due to Napoli's asking price, that move did not materialise. Ajax held talks over deals for a few other players, but eventually announced the signing of Simon Adingra on deadline day, with the Ivorian winger joining the Amsterdam club on loan from Sunderland.
Cruijff explains Godts' departure
When news of Paris Saint-Germain's interest emerged, Jordi Cruijff publicly said that he wanted Godts to stay for one more year. Despite that, Ajax eventually decided to let him leave.
Speaking to ESPN, Cruijff explained why Ajax let the 21-year-old leave.
“Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona; those are final destinations. Ajax is a trampoline club and the Netherlands a trampoline country," Cruijff explained.
“But you can’t stop them. I was young once too, so I have been at such a moment in my life. You try to get the most out of it, but you can’t stop a boy like that.
“I mean, he can work with Luis Enrique.
“And Paris Saint-Germain has won two Champions Leagues in a row. Then you can't say, 'No, you're not allowed'. That's not possible.”
Ajax should have got more for Godts
While it is understandable that Ajax wanted to allow Godts to take the next step in his career, they definitely should have got a higher transfer fee. A fixed fee of €45 million feels quite underwhelming in this market.
The current market is incredibly inflated. Godts was exceptional last season, registering over 30 goal contributions in all competitions. He is one of the most exciting young prospects in Europe in his position and will only continue to get better as the years go on. He is still very young and has many years of development left ahead of him before hitting his peak.
Ajax should have received a total package of at least €60 million, with a higher fixed fee. That would have been a fairer deal, taking into consideration the current state of inflation in the market.
