Hato: My departure will help Ajax finances; Bogard is helping me improve my defense

Hupu, August 15th, Holland Telecommunications exclusive interview with Chelsea central defender Jorell Harto.

Why did you decide to leave Ajax?

"I thought for a long time and wanted to know what to do this summer. After two and a half years of playing in the Ajax first team, I feel like I am ready for new challenges, new steps, new adventures. Chelsea gave me a very good first impression. During the transfer negotiations, I felt that this was a very enthusiastic club and was very suitable for me."

How difficult is it to realize that I am now a "player worth 44 million"?

"Being sold at this price is of course a good thing for Ajax, because it helps the club's financial situation.

But I don't consider myself a *(spent) 44 million*(buyed) player. To be honest, I don't care. It doesn't mean much to me."

What do you miss Ajax the most?

"Basically everyone I've worked with in Ajax for seven years. Especially Kenneth Taylor, Brian Brobbie and Irving Viendal, because I've been with them a lot in recent seasons. They're my team."

When did you feel you're ready to go to the Premier League?

"I can prove myself in those two matches of the Dutch national team against Germany and Spain in the National League. I think I did it.

I talked to the national team head coach (Koman), told him I wanted to transfer to Chelsea and explained why. The Premier League is the best league in the world. Just like against Germany and Spain, I can compete with the best players there. I am ready to face the challenge."

What role has Bogard played in your development?

"During the holidays, I mainly trained with Winston. In order to maintain physical fitness, I also strengthened the muscles in some parts. The training session was very focused on my position - the left back and left center back. During the season, we discussed based on the video what I did well and what I could improve."

What aspects can be improved now and what should be improved?

"Last year, the focus was already on one-on-one defense and it was constantly improving. But now I'm playing against better players every week. So I have to go to a higher level. But that actually applies to all aspects."