Thilo Kehrer has explained his move to AFC Ajax, revealing that conversations with Jordi Cruijff and Marc ter Stegen played a key part. The 29-year-old German international has joined on loan from AS Monaco this season and is viewed as the desired reinforcement for the centre-back position.
According to a report by Voetbal International this week, Kehrer held extensive talks with technical director Jordi Cruijff about the plans in Amsterdam. "Jordi didn't really need to convince me," Kehrer said. "He explained the plan and told me what the expectations and ambitions are." The defender, who previously played for Schalke 04, Paris Saint-Germain, West Ham United and Monaco, wants to bring his personality into the group and help the team.
How did former teammates influence his choice?
An extra nudge came from his German national team colleagues. He spoke with goalkeeper Marc ter Stegen, who plays for Ajax, in the days before his move. Ter Stegen asked him if there was a chance he would also join and they had good conversations about the club. For Kehrer, this was a confirmation and he finds it nice to see old teammates again. Besides Ter Stegen, he also knows Julian Brandt from the national team. Kehrer also played with Caio Henrique at Monaco.
Kehrer's arrival comes during a strong start to the season for Ajax. The Amsterdam side currently sits fourth in the Eredivisie with seven points from three matches. They have two wins and a draw, with a goal difference of plus six. In the title race, they are five points behind leaders AZ Alkmaar. Fans can track the full table on our standings page.
What does Kehrer bring to Ajax's defence?
Kehrer describes himself as a dynamic defender who brings energy. He is naturally communicative on the pitch due to his position. He tries to help his teammates, plays with as much energy as possible and engages in duels. With the ball, he tries to support the team with his qualities. His personality, he believes, is better seen than described. The German, who has 28 caps, last played for the national team in June of last year.
What does his signing mean for the squad?
The loan deal for Kehrer addresses an immediate need at the right centre-back position. His experience at the highest level in Germany, France, England and the Champions League should bring stability to Ajax's young defence. He joins a squad currently in fourth place and ready for the big challenges. The coming weeks are important, with a view to the squad for upcoming matches.
Kehrer is pleased the transfer is complete. "I'm glad it worked out and that I'm here. I'm really looking forward to starting," said the defender. His first major test is imminent, as Ajax hosts PSV Eindhoven, the second-placed team, on September 5. That fixture is listed in our fixtures schedule.
