Amourricho van Axel-Dongen: The Winger Fighting Back From the Brink
A Career Interrupted: The Ongoing Ankle Setback
In mid‑October 2024, van Axel‑Dongen suffered a serious ankle injury—this time a recurrence that further set back his progress. According to Transfermarkt, this injury occurred on October 17, 2024, and as of late May 2025, it has kept him sidelined for about 270 days, wiping out approximately 40 matches across first‑team and Jong Ajax levels .
The winger self-reported the setback on Instagram in November, expressing deep frustration:
“Where do I begin… the past two seasons have been physically and mentally hard… to hear now that I’ve injured my ankle—it hurts.”
Mental Toll: Quitting Crossed His Mind
The long spells on the sidelines ravaged more than just his fitness—he’s admitted his spirit was tested too. In March 2025, during an interview on Kick ’t Met, he opened up:
“I just thought: I’m done with football… Maybe this isn’t meant for me.”
He shared emotional moments with his mother, questioning whether the continuous cycle—from youth to senior football—had overwhelmed his body and mind:
“I did everything to prove who I am… but there were moments I said: I can’t do it anymore.”
A Rapid Rise Amidst a Global Crisis
Complicating his situation was the unnatural progression of his development. Van Axel‑Dongen moved quickly from the U18 squad—where COVID-19 had stalled match time—into the intensity of senior football. That demanding jump, at just 16 years old, “was tougher on my body than others,” he explained .
Resilience & Recovery: Hope on the Horizon
Despite the strain, the 20‑year‑old remains optimistic. In the same March interview, he said, “I hope to play minutes as soon as possible,” adding that recovery is progressing positively .
Ajax teammates and followers on social media have rallied around him, reinforcing his belief:
“I’m going to get there, one way or another.”
As of now, no precise return-to-play date has been announced, though rehabilitation continues and he’s gradually reintegrating into training sessions .
What Lies Ahead: A Roadmap for Recovery & Reintegration
1. Physical Comeback
Continue progressive, monitored rehab to rebuild strength and prevent re-injury.
Gradual reintroduction to full training and load management key to durability.
2. Mental Reinforcement
Psychological support and confidence-building essential after repeated long absences.
Leadership from coaching staff and family remains critical.
3. Tactical Reentry
Potential low-risk minutes with Jong Ajax before first-team integration.
Training in matchlike intensity with Ajax’s senior squad to test physical readiness.
4. Long-Term Outlook
Successfully returning would confirm Ajax’s faith: his contract runs until June 30, 2027 .
Fully fit, his pace, flair, and technical skill could see him compete increasingly for first-team minutes—especially on the wings where Ajax seeks depth.
Final Take
Injury Status: Sidelined since 17 Oct 2024 with ankle injury; rehab ongoing.
Mental State: Battled hard, even considered quitting—but emerged determined.
Recovery Path: Structured return via rehab → Jong Ajax → senior minutes.
Future Outlook: If he stays healthy, Ajax’s long-term commitment implies a full revival is within reach.
Van Axel‑Dongen’s journey highlights the toll professional football can exact, but also the resilience of a young talent who refuses to let setbacks define him. If he can navigate this crucial phase—and maintain fitness—significant progress toward fulfilling his promise could follow.
m Ajax’s official communications, or dive deeper into his playing style and strengths when fit?
