Fulham defender Kenny Tete has opened up about his decision to stay in west London rather than return to Ajax, admitting financial factors played a role in his summer choice.
The Dutch full-back, who joined Fulham from Lyon in 2020, became a free agent earlier this year before signing a new long-term deal with the Cottagers. Speaking to NOS in his native Netherlands, Tete explained that while Ajax did explore the possibility of a reunion, their current wage structure made the move impossible.
Tete on Ajax: “I remain a fan, but…”
Tete rose through Ajax’s academy before making his first-team debut in 2015. He made 55 senior appearances for the club before leaving for Lyon in 2017, later joining Fulham three years later.
He admitted that while a return to Amsterdam was tempting emotionally, practicality and stability ultimately swayed him to remain in England.
“I just extended my contract, so I’m doing really well. Yes, I’m happy,” Tete said. “Fulham’s not a very big club — more of a family club — but it’s fantastic. A great team, great coach, one of London’s nicest neighbourhoods.
“Of course, Ajax were interested. But salaries have gone down there. They only pay big money to the biggest names. It was clear to me that I wanted to stay here. And yes, I also have to think about my retirement,” he added with a grin.
“It’s not like I earn thirty million here, but it depends on who they want to give the money to. Ajax will always be special to me — I’m still a fan — but right now, this is where I belong.”
Tete’s solid display vs Newcastle
Tete’s comments came before Fulham’s 2–1 loss to Newcastle United, where the 29-year-old delivered another reliable performance at right-back. He played 89 minutes, showcasing his usual blend of defensive discipline and composed passing under pressure.
| Statistic | Kenny Tete vs Newcastle |
|---|---|
| Minutes Played | 89 |
| Tackles (won) | 4 (4) |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Clearances | 3 |
| Blocked Shots | 1 |
| Recoveries | 4 |
| Ground Duels (won) | 15 (7) |
| Aerial Duels (won) | 1 (0) |
| Fouls | 2 |
| Dribbled Past | 2 |
| Accurate Passes | 33/40 (83%) |
| Passes in Opposition Half | 13/14 (93%) |
| Passes in Own Half | 20/27 (74%) |
Source: Sofascore
— 25 October 2025
It was another example of why Marco Silva was determined to keep Tete at Craven Cottage. The full-back’s blend of experience, defensive nous, and progressive passing continues to make him a key part of Fulham’s setup.
Analyst Verdict — by Liam Rowe, FootballPlace
Kenny Tete’s honesty about the financial realities of football is refreshing — and realistic. Ajax’s new salary model has priced them out of moves for players of his profile, while Fulham can offer stability and Premier League football.
What stands out is that Tete clearly still loves Ajax, but he’s thriving in London under Marco Silva. His performance against Newcastle was another reminder of his consistency — reliable, composed, and rarely caught out of position.
Key Insights
- Kenny Tete confirmed Ajax were interested in signing him this summer, but could not match Fulham’s salary offer.
- The defender said Fulham’s “family atmosphere” and Marco Silva’s coaching influenced his decision to stay.
- Tete: “I have to think about my retirement — Ajax couldn’t afford me.”
- Played 89 minutes vs Newcastle with 83% pass accuracy and 4/4 successful tackles.
- The 29-year-old remains a key figure in Fulham’s defensive line.
What’s Next
Tete and Fulham face an important run with matches against Wolves and Everton in early November.
With Silva’s side are sitting 16th in the table, Tete’s experience will be vital in maintaining momentum through the winter stretch.
For Ajax, it’s another reminder of how far their financial limitations have shifted in comparison to Europe’s top leagues.
👉 Kenny Tete: “Ajax will always be special, but Fulham feels like home now.”
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