Daley Blind has addressed the criticism from the Ajax faithful in his farewell speech after departing the Eredivisie club, Voetbal International reports.
Blind, 32, has been released six months early from his contract at the Amsterdam club with the defender linked to a move to Royal Antwerp in the Belgian Pro League.
The former Manchester United defender was not high up the pecking order with the left-back dropped down to third choice in Alfred Schreuder’s squad behind Owen Wijndal and Devyne Rensch.
Towards the end of his second stint at the John Cruyff Stadium, Blind received criticism from the Ajax faithful which was something that he felt was unfair and admits he felt mistreated at times too.
“Amsterdammers are often direct and demanding. That is also allowed, I like that and that is why I can be honest with you. We have a special relationship together, but it wasn’t always easy for me,” he said.
He said: “Sometimes I had the feeling that I was playing against some of you and sometimes that I was criticised just a little faster than many other players. I don’t know if my feeling is right. Maybe not. Some will understand me, some won’t. But no, it’s certainly not the reason for my goodbye. I am grateful to you.”
“This is not how I imagined my end at Ajax, but due to ‘circumstances’ it turned out that way. I hope there will come a right time to say goodbye to you. Make sure Ajax stays Ajax. You are Ajax. And so never forget: We are Ajax. We are the best!”
