Thilo Kehrer adds a risk-taking element to the AFC Ajax defence. The German defender, on loan from AS Monaco, is described by club watcher Johan Inan as a player who is never averse to taking a risk in his play.
Manager Maurice Steijn's side sits eighth in the Eredivisie after four matchdays with seven points. The latest result, a 1-3 home defeat to PSV, highlighted the need for improvement. Ajax has scored nine goals but also conceded five.
Risk as a trademark
Johan Inan, who has followed the club for years, sees a specific profile in Kehrer. "Thilo Kehrer is never averse to a bit of risk in his play: this is what Ajax gets with the loanee from AS Monaco," Inan said. That mentality can be both a blessing and a curse, according to him. It means Kehrer will more often block a cross or make a key tackle, but also that he will occasionally lose his position. For an Ajax that sometimes defended too passively, that proactive attitude could be a breath of fresh air.
Context of the loan
The transfer materialised after a series of defensive issues in Amsterdam. Several key players struggled with injuries or dips in form, increasing the need for reinforcement. Kehrer, who previously played for Schalke 04, Paris Saint-Germain and West Ham United, has the experience to claim a role immediately. His contract with Monaco is still running, but for this season he is fully available for Ajax.
The team currently trails leaders AZ Alkmaar by eight points, underlining the urgency of a good run. An away match against Fortuna Sittard, who sit sixth, is scheduled for Saturday.
Kehrer is deployable as a centre-back and can also operate as a right-back. That versatility gives manager Steijn more options, especially with a busy schedule in mind. The squad, gains a physically strong and experienced player. His presence should also increase competition, which ought to benefit overall defensive performances.
The recent results, a mix of wins and losses, show there is work to do. After the win at Telstar (0-4) and the two victories over FC Sion in the Europa League qualifiers, the setback against PSV was a reality check. The standings show that any dropped points immediately affect the connection with the top.
Kehrer's first chance to make his debut could come as early as the Fortuna Sittard match. The defender has trained with the team this week and is ready for action according to the staff. His arrival is a direct response to the defensive unease that was visible at times in recent weeks. Ajax hopes his bravery and experience will restore the balance in the team. The loan deal runs at least until the end of this season.
