Ajax’s midfielder, Abdelhak Nouri have been diagnosed with “serious and permanent brain damage” after he collapsed during a pre-season friendly match on Saturday.
The club’s official Twitter handle stated: “Ajax are deeply saddened by the news that Appie Nouri has been diagnosed with serious and permanent brain damage,”
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to him and his loved ones in this difficult time.”
Thanks to everyone for their support. We will keep you informed. For now: stay strong Appie! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/vo4VVkjFbZ
— AFC Ajax (English) (@AFCAjax_EN) July 8, 2017
Nouri collapsed during the second half of the friendly game and was quickly taken to the hospital in a helicopter, which subsequently led to the game been abandoned.
Former Man United goalkeeper and now Ajax CEO, Edwin Van sar said: “This is the worst possible message. It is terrible. We feel enormously for his parents, siblings and other relatives.
“The blow is also difficult for Ajax, though we knew we had to consider this scenario. They were uncertain days, lots of people in different ways have sympathized with his situation and is greatly appreciated.
“Abdelhak is such a great talent, but unfortunately we will never know how far his star would have reached had this not happened. ”
The 20-year-old Dutchman was in Ajax’s Europa League Final squad but didn’t get to play as Man United went on to win 2-0.
Players across the football world have been sending their condolences and prayers to Ajax and his family.
My thoughts and prayers are with Nouri, his family, friends, teammates, club Ajax and all football fans. Stay strong ❤️? #StayStrongAppie pic.twitter.com/jLR6EebJhR
— Marc ter Stegen (@mterstegen1) July 13, 2017
My thoughts are with you, your family and everyone involved. ??#StayStrongAppie pic.twitter.com/m46SYKmes8
— Daley Blind (@BlindDaley) July 13, 2017