Maximilian Wöber moves to Ajax - Rapid bring in reinforcements
As recently stated by Sporting Director Fredy Bickel, there are soon going to be additions to the first team squad: "In the coming days we will be announcing new signings and have been in close contact with certain players and clubs. But firstly there is a departure to announce", explained the Swiss.
The departure concerns centre back Max Wöber, who moves with immediate effect to six-time European champions Ajax Amsterdam. On the transfer of the Rapid academy graduate Bickel said: "Of course we didn't want to lose Maximilian Wöber, rather keep him at the club for as long as possible. A few weeks ago we had already rejected a lucrative offer from Ajax. The Dutch side have recently intensified their approaches and we arrived at a point whereby we didn't want to stand in the way of the wishes of a player who has behaved impeccably throughout this process. From another aspect, we now have more financial muscle to strengthen our squad in two or three different positions. With Wöber leaving and Dibon suffering a long-term injury, it's clear that alongside a pacey attacker, defensive reinforcement is at the top of the list", stated Bickel.
Whilst the transfer fee will remain undisclosed, Bickel did confirm that "the offer we accepted was certainly higher than that we initially rejected a few weeks ago." Maximilian Wöber made his way through the youth ranks before celebrating his first team debut under then Trainer Zoran Barisic in February 2016. Since making his bow in Green & White, Wöber went on to make 24 further appearances spread across the Bundesliga (16), ÖFB Cup (5), and the Europa League (3.) scoring two goals. On Tuesday Wöber was called up to the Austrian national squad for the first time by boss Marcel Koller ahead of the forthcoming international fixtures.
The nineteen-year old Wöber has also shared thoughts on his impending move to the Dutch capital: "The decision was really difficult for me. I've felt good at Rapid and I'm enormously grateful for my time in Hütteldorf and will always remain connected to the club. Up until a few days ago I was convinced that I would be spending at the very least the coming season here, but during the last days the situation changed. The Ajax representatives want me to join up with the team immediately and begin integrating into their young side. They very convincingly explained to me that I'm their number one target for a central defensive spot. Ajax is a club known all around the world, a club that reached the final of the Europa League last season and have the chance to reach the group stages again this year. I want to take on this challenge and opportunity without question, but at the same time I wish Rapid - a club that will always carry a special meaning for me - all the best for the coming season. I am convinced that my teammates have the abilities with or without me to enjoy success this season", said the Viennese.
SK Rapid Vienna wishes Maximilian Wöber, who again on Saturday showed his professionalism and exceptional attitude in what proved to be his final performance for the club, every success at his new club and beyond!
(gw)