‘Be patient with Ajax for development, don’t rush’ - Former Liverpool star advises Kudus

Former Liverpool star John Barnes has offered advice to Mohammed Kudus, urging the Ajax midfielder to be patient and not rush his progress.

Barnes emphasized the importance of consistency in performance and suggested that Kudus should stay at Ajax to continue honing his skills.

Kudus, who has been in impressive form, has attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.

Reports have emerged claiming that the 22-year-old has turned down contract extension offers from Ajax, indicating his desire to leave the club.

However, Barnes believes that it would be in Kudus' best interest to remain at Ajax and focus on developing his trade.

“I advice every player to learn their trade, to be disciplined and humble. To stay at their club for a long period of time – so they can do that [learn their trade]..,” Barnes said in an interview with Joy FM.

Barnes acknowledged that the football landscape has changed, with players often being transferred after a single standout season.

“...but football is different now anyways, it has changed. And we see that all the time, where a footballer has one good season and is transferred,” Barnes said.

Nevertheless, he argued that demonstrating consistency over an extended period is crucial before making a move to a bigger club.

Drawing from his own experience, Barnes highlighted the necessity of proving oneself capable of handling the pressure that comes with a high-profile transfer.

He said, “I use myself as an example; when I played, you had to show a level of consistency over a period of time, before you were transferred. Because of course when you are transferred, there’s going to be a lot of pressure on you, so unless you are able to show you can handle the pressure or do this [perform at a top level] over a period of time…”

Kudus has been a key figure for Ajax this season, contributing to a total of 18 goals. Additionally, he has been instrumental for the Ghanaian national team, the Black Stars.