Ajax director praises Barcelona loanee Ter Stegen after impressive revival: ‘Can play wherever he likes’

Former Barcelona sporting director Jordi Cruyff has praised Marc-Andre ter Stegen following the German goalkeeper’s move to Ajax, insisting that the experienced shot-stopper was keen to join the Amsterdam club despite having other options available. 

Ter Stegen is currently on loan from Barcelona until 2027 and has made an encouraging start to his spell in the Netherlands.

Cruyff, who now serves as Ajax’s technical director, played an important role in bringing the 34-year-old to the Johan Cruyff Arena. 

The move has given the German international an opportunity to regain regular football after an injury-disrupted period in Spain, while Ajax have also added an experienced international to their squad.

Jordi Cruyff explains why Ter Stegen chose Ajax

Speaking about the goalkeeper’s arrival, Cruyff emphasised that Ajax were not just benefiting from an opportunity to sign an established player. 

Rather, he suggested that Ter Stegen’s own desire to join the project was an important part of the agreement.

“Ter Stegen can play wherever he likes. However, he is keen to join Ajax. Those are good signings,” Cruyff said, as per SPORT.

Cruyff also highlighted the recruitment of Julian Brandt, another experienced German international who joined Ajax during the summer after leaving Borussia Dortmund as a free agent.

“The best moment was with Brandt. Nothing was leaked. It was a great moment, thanks to him as well. He knew how to keep it under wraps,” he recalled.

Ter Stegen earns Germany recognition under Jurgen Klopp

Ter Stegen’s improved situation at Ajax has also helped him return to the forefront of the German national-team picture. 

After a difficult period affected by injuries, he has regained regular playing time and earned the confidence of new Germany coach Jürgen Klopp.

Klopp has even confirmed that the goalkeeper is currently his first choice, selecting him ahead of the other contenders for the upcoming international fixtures.

“Marc is having a fantastic season in Amsterdam. We’re going into these matches with Marc as our number one,” explained Klopp. 

That development alone is a significant turnaround for Ter Stegen, whose final months at Barcelona had become increasingly difficult. 

Indeed, his long-term future at the Catalan club remains unresolved, but his performances in Amsterdam have given him an opportunity to rebuild his career.