Kian Fitz-Jim is one of a solid core at Ajax that are developing rapidly this season under trainer Francesco Farioli and his progress has not gone unnoticed by Michael Reiziger, as the 21-year-old midfielder is preparing for his debut with the Jong Oranje as they face both England and Slovakia.
So far this term, Kian Fitz-Jim has been an exciting addition to Ajax’s teamsheets and has notched a plethora of impressive performances. These include a week at the start of this month that saw him grab two goals – one each against PSV and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Ajax are currently third in the Eredivisie and have practically booked their slot in the next round of the Europa League with their position in second place.
After a brief lull, Ajax’s resurgence has come as a surprise to many football fans in the Netherlands. However, Fitz-Jim has never doubted his team.
“We looked at it from game to game. I didn’t think: ‘I want to have this number of points after this period’. But it doesn’t surprise me that we have achieved this.”
Fitz-Jim explained the good form of both himself and his teammates.
“We are going into every game with more and more courage. The confidence is growing, the chemistry between the boys too. And that has been the case since the beginning of the season. We have more stability.”
The creative midfielder then revealed what that stability means to him.
“I’m talking about the results. We would have lost a match like against FC Twente last season and we’re also winning the lesser matches this season.”
The work and influence of coach Farioli is clearly visible at Ajax, yet Fitz-Jim felt the credit went further than just the Italian.
“It is not only the coach, he also has a great staff with him. We are working every day to do better and to analyse the next match. I think that is very good, not only because I play myself, but also for the club Ajax itself.
“These are small things that you don’t really think about, that can have a huge impact on a group of players,” the midfielder continues. “Things like the photos of the club of 100 in the Arena and at De Toekomst there are portraits of former players on the wall. But also the individual analyses with players. We missed those kinds of things last season and they bring that,” says Fitz-Jim. “That’s that support I think. The new staff has brought me a lot and I’m very grateful for that.”
His good season at Ajax under the new staff has earned him a call-up to Jong Oranje, where he can make his debut in the upcoming international period.
“I am very happy to be here. I have worked hard and this was one of my goals this season.”
(Interview taken from ESPN.NL)
