World Cup
Ajax's strategic boost: Caio Henrique signs four-year deal
Ajax have completed the signing of 28‑year‑old Brazilian left‑back Caio Henrique from AS Monaco, securing him on a four‑year contract that runs until mid‑2030, the club announced in a press release. The Amsterdam side said the experienced defender will immediately strengthen the squad.
Henrique began his youth career at Santos in Brazil and made his professional debut in 2016 with Atlético Madrid in Spain. He was subsequently loaned to Brazilian clubs Paraná, Fluminense and Grêmio.
In August 2020 the wing‑back moved permanently to AS Monaco, where he became a regular and amassed more than two hundred duels. Henrique has also earned caps for Brazil but is not part of the current World Cup selection.
"We are happy with the arrival of Caio," said technical director Jordi Cruijff. "We have worked for a long time on his transfer and it is great that it succeeded. He brings a lot of experience and leadership, and his qualities make him a valuable addition who can start right away."
Henrique told Ajax's website that the aim is to become champions of the Netherlands and that the club must set a high bar. He added that Jordi Cruijff made it clear the goal is to win titles and to return Ajax to a period of trophy‑collecting.
He becomes the tenth Brazilian to wear the Ajax shirt, joining compatriot Lucas Rosa in the squad. Henrique has previously played with former Ajax players Antony and David Neres in Brazil's youth teams and referenced former Brazilian left‑back Maxwell, who also enjoyed success and won titles with Ajax.
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Johan Inan follows football club Ajax for this site. Inan writes analyses, interviews and background stories about Ajax for the site. Cody Gakpo is ready to play against Morocco, saying "I am impressed by how he deals with the sad news". He added that he admires his teammate's handling of the situation.