STEVEN BERGWIJN was shocked by the opportunity to join Ajax but he believes the move is a step up.
The winger, 24, finalised a £26million move to the Dutch champions on Friday.
And he is happy to return after spending six years playing for the club’s academy as a kid.
Bergwijn also revealed that the opportunity to prove himself on the biggest stage – the Champions League, was impossible to turn down.
The Dutchman told Ajax’s official website: “I was a bit shocked. I didn’t see it coming, actually.
“But yeah I was getting left out of the team there and of course you just want to play.
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“So if you can go back to Ajax it’s quite tempting. They always do well in the league and the Champions League. So, it’s a step up for me.
“Ajax always play an attractive brand of football. They’re always in the Champions League and they have done well in it.
“That’s important to me. In order to show what I can do. To prove myself on the biggest stage.”
Bergwijn has signed a five-year deal with Ajax and reportedly picked the club over Manchester United and Everton.
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His arrival could pave the way for Antony to leave amid interest from United, who are still yet to match the Brazilian’s £70m asking price.
The Red Devils are believed to have made Ajax a £51m offer for the winger which was rejected, but he is keen on making the switch.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk