Kenneth Taylor reflects on difficult Ajax period

Kenneth Taylor joined SS Lazio from Ajax in January 2024, marking his first move abroad after a long career at the Dutch club. The midfielder, 23, had spent his entire youth and senior career at Ajax since joining at age 9.

Taylor admitted in an interview that his final months at Ajax were challenging, stating he experienced a period of underperformance. He described the situation as mentally tough, with limited playing time contributing to his struggles.

His form dipped significantly during the 2023-24 season, with Taylor making just 12 Eredivisie appearances and scoring once. Ajax finished third in the league, their lowest position in over a decade.

The midfielder cited the pressure of expectations and competition for spots as key factors in his difficult spell. He acknowledged that the environment at Ajax, while familiar, became increasingly demanding as he matured.

Taylor’s contract with Ajax expired at the end of the season, allowing him to leave on a free transfer. Lazio signed him on a four-year deal, reuniting him with former Ajax coach Maurizio Sarri.

At Lazio, Taylor has started three of the club’s first five Serie A matches, providing competition in midfield alongside players like Sergej Milinković-Savić and Matías Vecino.