Oscar Gloukh’s second Eredivisie appearance came in a tense 2–2 draw away to Go Ahead Eagles on Sunday, and while he didn’t change the scoreline, his presence carried both purpose and promise.
Brought on at halftime, he immediately looked to inject energy – striving to control tight spaces, link play, and spark the attack. Gloukh’s drive on the ball and willingness to pull defenders aside created fleeting moments where Ajax might have sprung forward. It wasn’t dazzling, but it was the kind of intelligent movement and quiet influence that heralds growth, not fireworks.
In Israel, the reaction wasn’t defined by stats but by context. Ever since his arrival at Ajax, the press framed his role as something much larger than soccer. In AS, his transfer was labeled “un fichaje histórico para Israel” (“a historic signing for Israel”), underscoring the sporting and symbolic weight it carries – becoming the first Israeli to represent this Jewish-affiliated European powerhouse in an official match.
Gloukh discusses importance of move to Ajax
Gloukh himself underscored the message of representation when he said, “This transfer to Ajax is more than a simple move. It’s a message… I want to show that Israeli footballers can succeed on the big stages.”
Echoing that sentiment with Ajax’s distinctive flair, he told the club’s media ahead of his debut: “I love to dribble, pass, score, and provide assists,” adding, “and I bring energy to the team.
Even on a day when midfield creativity was stifled and chances were few, that aspiration mattered – it signaled the intent behind wearing Ajax’s revered No. 10.