Poku Reveals Shock After Ten hag inquiry Amidst Whirlwind Transfer to Leverkusen
Venlo, Netherlands – Ernest Poku experienced a whirlwind of emotions and rapid-fire decisions in recent months, culminating in a transfer from AZ Alkmaar to Bayer Leverkusen, punctuated by a surprising inquiry from Manchester united manager Erik ten Hag. Teh 20-year-old winger, still processing the sting of Jong Oranje’s European Championship final defeat, disclosed he was “shocked” to receive a call from Ten Hag, though ultimately chose to pursue immediate playing time and development in Germany.
Poku’s journey from narrowly missing the Euro U21 final to securing a move to the Bundesliga unfolded quickly. Despite the disappointment of Jong Oranje’s loss to England – a match highlighted by Harvey Elliott’s performance - Poku remains focused on his future. He is eager to integrate into Bayer Leverkusen’s system, where he anticipates a role utilizing his attacking prowess on the flanks, even while acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the new manager’s tactical approach. “Although of course it is a matter of waiting how the new trainer wants to play,” Poku stated.
The transfer to Leverkusen represents a significant step in Poku’s career,fueled by his ambition to consistently improve and contribute. “In the end I am in control. I have to show myself,the trainer cannot do that for you,” he emphasized,signaling a determination to seize his opportunity. He intends to leverage his experience and become a key player for both Leverkusen and a revamped Jong Oranje squad, which now features six players from his former club, AZ, under Michael Reiziger.
Looking ahead, Poku expressed his desire to be a pivotal figure in the Dutch national team’s future. “I want to be crucial and take my experience with me,” he said.
Tuesday’s scheduled match between the Dutch Juniors and Young Israel in Venlo will be played behind closed doors due to security concerns, as determined by the KNVB and local authorities. The game is set to begin at 5 p.m.local time.
