Kenny Tete has admitted it was a “shame” to be pushed out of Ajax earlier in his career, revealing he never wanted to leave the Dutch giants before eventually moving to Lyon and later Fulham.
The 30-year-old right-back, speaking to Viaplay in comments relayed by Soccer News, reflected on the circumstances that led to his 2017 exit from Ajax, where he had progressed through the academy ranks.
Kenny Tete opens up on Ajax transfer threat
Tete joined Ajax’s academy in 2005 and broke into the first team in 2013, making 55 senior appearances.
However, his playing time declined sharply during the 2016/17 season under Peter Bosz, featuring for just 450 league minutes across five matches. When Marcel Keizer replaced Bosz at the start of the following campaign, Tete had entered the final year of his contract.
“I didn’t want to renew my contract because I wasn’t playing. And then Bosz suddenly left,” Tete explained.
Keizer’s message, according to the Fulham defender, was direct.
“He then said to me: Kenny, we’ve sold you. Do you want to finish your transfer quietly or are you going to train with Jong Ajax?”
Tete admitted the ultimatum forced him to reassess his position.
“I thought: what? I can’t just hang around in the last year of my contract and see what happens?”
From Ajax to Fulham stability
Tete ultimately joined Lyon before moving to Fulham in September 2020 under Scott Parker. He has since made 140 appearances for the London club under Marco Silva.
Last summer, he was linked with a move to Everton, while Ajax were also reportedly interested in bringing him back. No transfer materialised, and he remains at Craven Cottage.
Looking back, Tete says he understands Ajax’s decision, even if it was painful.
“Ultimately, Ajax is a business too. At least the club gets something out of it. I thought it was a shame, but it was nice and clear.”
| Kenny Tete Career Snapshot | Details |
|---|---|
| Ajax Senior Apps | 55 |
| Joined Fulham | September 2020 |
| Fulham Appearances | 140 |
| Primary Position | Right-back |
source: sofascore match data – 20 February 2026
Having followed Fulham’s defensive structure in recent seasons, Tete’s consistency has provided balance on the right side, particularly in Silva’s transitional system.
However, it remains uncertain how long-term his future at Fulham will be given previous transfer interest.
Key Insights
- Tete says he never wanted to leave Ajax.
- Faced ultimatum under Marcel Keizer.
- Joined Lyon in 2017 before Fulham move in 2020.
- Made 140 appearances for Fulham.
- Linked with Everton and Ajax last summer.
What’s Next
Fulham continue their Premier League campaign aiming for a top-half finish. Tete remains part of Silva’s rotation and could feature in upcoming fixtures as competition for European spots tightens.
Much may depend on contract considerations and renewed interest when the summer window approaches.
Was Ajax right to prioritise business over patience in Tete’s case?
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