Nigeria-eligible defender Precious Ugwu departs Ajax for FC Volendam

By Oluwadamilola Olaleye

Ajax have confirmed the departure of 19-year-old defender Precious Ugwu to FC Volendam, with one-year remaining on his contract.

The Nigeria-eligible talent joins the Eredivisie newcomers after over a decade at the Amsterdam club.

Ugwu, who has represented Ajax since 2014, rose through the club’s youth academy and made his professional debut for Jong Ajax on February 26, 2024, in a Keuken Kampioen Divisie match against Telstar.

He went on to make 31 appearances for Ajax U23 but did not break into the first team.

“Precious is a great defender who has played in our youth academy for a long time,” said Marijn Beuker, Ajax’s director of football.

“It’s a pity he wasn’t able to make the last step to the first team. We wish him all the best with his next step at FC Volendam.”

Born in Germany, Ugwu is eligible to represent both Germany and Nigeria internationally.

His move to Volendam is seen as an opportunity for more first-team football as he continues his professional development.