After an excellent breakout campaign last season, Ajax striker Kasper Dolberg will be looking to enhance his reputation as one of the deadliest young forwards in Europe.
- By Mark Neale
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One of the hottest talents in European football at present, Kasper Dolberg signed for his first professional club Danish side Silkeborg IF at 12 years old. After five years working through their youth ranks he made his first team debut in a league match against Brondby. Playing in a youth tournament Dolberg was spotted by Ajax scout John Steen Olsen and offered a trial in Amsterdam, the rest as they say is history.
Still only just 19 years old, the fully capped Danish international has grabbed the attentions of such illustrious clubs as the Italian’s Napoli and the two English giants Arsenal and Manchester United last season with some impressive displays both domestically and on the continent. Of a total of 47 appearances last season Dolberg found the net 23 times and seven of those goals were in the Europa league in which Ajax reached the final. He was rewarded for his excellent campaign by being named Ajax’s young player of the year.
Style of play
Elegant, intelligent technical ability and hard working are all attributes the young Dane possess, comparisons to the Laudrup’s are more to do with nationality rather than skills set. A more sensible comparison is of the Ajax great Dennis Bergkamp, echoing the same football intelligence and movement and a fantastic first touch. Neither a traditional number nine or ten Dolberg plays as a nine and a half, if space is tight he will drop to link the play but given the chance his deadly accurate right foot will finish a move.
What to expect this season
More of the same is the probable answer, with the return to Ajax of veteran striker Klass Jan Huntelaar; the football education should continue for Dolberg. Expect more goals, more assists and more attention from other clubs for the striker as he continues to improve. Ajax have stated he is not for sale and for now Dolberg seems to be content in Amsterdam but for how long? Enjoy whilst you can.
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