Drama As Ajax Sacks Nigerian Forward Via WhatsApp, Dutch Players Union Slams Club

Drama As Ajax Sacks Nigerian Forward Via WhatsApp, Dutch Players Union Slams Club

Sampson Adedeji

Dutch Eredivisie giants Ajax Amsterdam have sparked outrage after sacking Nigerian striker Chuba Akpom and six other players through WhatsApp, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Akpom, a former Arsenal star who spent last season on loan at French side LOSC Lille, was among those unceremoniously informed they were no longer part of Ajax's plans via a group chat message from technical director Alex Kroes.

The Dutch Players Union (VVCS) swiftly condemned the move, describing it as unacceptable and damaging to the players' careers.

In a strongly worded statement, the VVCS expressed dismay over the players being sidelined without proper consultation:

"The VVCS is surprised by the ban imposed on seven Ajax players under contract. These players are being explicitly isolated from their first-team colleagues. The VVCS considers this a form of improper employment and unnecessary public humiliation for players who bear no responsibility for the situation."

The union also pointed fingers at Ajax’s previous sporting director Sven Mislintat, blaming the current crisis on his mismanagement: "These players are now victims of Ajax's misguided policy, which allowed Mislintat free rein at the time."

According to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, the players, including Akpom and Carlos Forbs, have been barred from training with the first team as newly-appointed head coach John Heitinga prepares for the upcoming season.

The club reportedly instructed the affected players to look for new clubs, with access to team facilities now heavily restricted.

They are only permitted to use the training pitch and gym after the first team has completed their sessions.

Akpom, who played for England at youth level, declared his desire to represent Nigeria in 2019 but has yet to make his debut for the Super Eagles.