Ajax are reportedly experiencing growing regret over Brian Brobbey's departure to Sunderland after the striker enjoyed an impressive debut Premier League campaign at the Stadium of Light.
Brobbey completed a move worth around €20 million last summer following a difficult second spell in Amsterdam, where criticism over his performances and goal return frequently followed him. At the time, the transfer appeared to suit all parties.
Less than a year later, the picture looks very different.
The Dutch forward has become an important figure for Sunderland and his performances are now changing opinions both in England and the Netherlands.
Ajax regret growing after Brobbey improvement
Dutch journalist Mike Verweij believes Ajax may have underestimated Brobbey’s potential when agreeing to his departure.
Speaking on the Kick-off podcast, he suggested the club may have allowed the striker to leave too quickly.
“Brobbey has really picked things up in England. Last year, with four goals, that was really very poor. I think Ajax also let him go a bit too easily.” — Mike Verweij
Brobbey’s latest goal came during Sunderland’s victory over Everton, where he produced a powerful finish after physically overpowering James Tarkowski.
Certain forwards appear to benefit enormously from changes in environment and tactical structure. Confidence can often transform perception as much as statistics do.
Sustained performance over multiple seasons is often what ultimately changes reputations.
World Cup opportunity could now emerge
Brobbey’s development may also have arrived at the ideal moment internationally.
Although Ronald Koeman has generally preferred Memphis Depay as the Netherlands’ leading striker, questions around fitness and squad balance could create opportunities during the World Cup.
| Brian Brobbey 2025/26 | Record |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 30 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Transfer fee | €20m |
| Current club | Sunderland |
Source: season statistics – 21 May 2026
While Brobbey has not yet established himself as the Netherlands’ first-choice option, his momentum is moving in the right direction at a crucial stage of the season.
Key Points
- Ajax are reportedly regretting Brian Brobbey's departure
- The striker joined Sunderland for around €20m last summer
- Brobbey has scored seven Premier League goals this season
- Mike Verweij believes Ajax let him leave too easily
- The Sunderland forward could now push for a bigger Netherlands role
What's next
Brobbey's immediate focus will likely shift towards the World Cup and building on a season that has significantly altered perceptions around his potential.
For Sunderland, his development increasingly looks like one of the club's most important success stories. For Ajax, questions may continue over whether they moved on too quickly.
The coming months could determine whether Brobbey's resurgence is simply a strong season — or the beginning of something much bigger.
Has Sunderland unlocked the best version of Brian Brobbey?
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