Traoré was on loan to Ajax from Chelsea in the 2016/2017 season. The forward wore the Ajax jersey in 39 official matches. During that time, he scored thirteen goals and had six assists. "I only had one year at Ajax, but it was the best season of my career," reflects Traoré. "It might only have been a year, but it felt like five. That's because we played so many intense matches. We were in the running for the championship for a long time, and made it to the Europa League final. Unfortunately we didn't win anything, but it was an amazing time."
Even though it's been a while since Traoré wore the white and red, he still follows Ajax closely. "It's actually gotten difficult since Erik ten Hag left. It's part of football sometimes, that you have a bad period. Sometimes it lasts a month, sometimes half a year, and sometimes even longer. Ajax is a great club, and I'm sure they'll come back strong, fight for the title again, and that things will change quickly."
Time at Aston Villa
Traoré has been under contract with Villarreal in Spain since February 2024, but did take part in the preparations for this season with Aston Villa. "I was there for the preseason and saw how the team has developed. They have world-class players and one of the best managers (Unai Emery) in the world, I think."
The former Ajax player greatly enjoyed his time in Birmingham. "Aston Villa is a great, passionate club with incredible supporters. They have an incredible history, and now they're back on the European stage where they belong."
First leg in Johan Cruyff ArenA
Traoré expects that Ajax will face a stiff challenge in Aston Villa. "They have a lot of top players and have a lot of confidence. They're well-organised with a lot of individual quality. But Ajax is a great club. They aren't in the running to win the league right now, but sometimes you can rise above yourself in Europa. It will be a fantastic match."
The former Ajax player hopes to be able to follow the match between his old clubs on Thursday. "Villarreal plays at 9:00 p.m., but I am not registered. I will definitely try to watch the game before that. May the best team win," Traoré concludes.
