Ajax Striker Julian Rijkhoff Joins Almere City on Loan: ‘A Chance for Growth’

Ajax has confirmed that striker Julian Rijkhoff has been sent out on loan to Almere City, a club that has recently been relegated to the Keuken Kampioen Divisie.

The 20-year-old forward initially joined Ajax in 2021 before moving to Borussia Dortmund, where he made a name for himself as a prolific scorer at the U19 level, netting 65 goals in 81 appearances across various German youth competitions and the UEFA Youth League.

Rijkhoff made his return to Ajax in February 2024 but has struggled to establish himself within the senior squad, registering no goals in 11 appearances. In the 2024/25 season, manager Francesco Farioli afforded him just 16 minutes of play in the opening match, a UEFA Europa League qualifier against Serbian team FK Vojvodina.

Since returning to the club, Rijkhoff has made 42 appearances for the U21 side, Jong Ajax, where he has scored 15 goals.

‘Struggling to make the leap’

He will now continue his career in the Dutch second tier with Almere City.

“Sadly, Julian wasn’t able to make the significant step up to Ajax 1 last season,” stated technical director Alex Kroes on the club’s website.

“At Almere, he will have the chance to compete for the title while also developing his skills in a new setting. We wish him all the best and will certainly monitor his progress,” he added.

Julian Rijkhoff is tied to Ajax with a contract that extends until 2027.