From Ajax’s youngest-ever European captain to Maresca’s tactical Swiss Army knife
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At just 19, Jorrel Hato has already broken records and turned heads across the continent. When Ajax handed him the captain’s armband in European competition at 17 years and 282 days old, it wasn’t a token gesture to a promising youngster – it was recognition of something exceptional.
Fast forward less than two years and Chelsea have spent just over £40 million to bring the Dutchman to Stamford Bridge. It’s a bold move, and one that has many asking the same question: Is Hato the missing piece in Enzo Maresca’s evolving puzzle?
Consistency in a Chaotic Season
Ajax’s 2024-25 campaign was anything but smooth. A late collapse saw them finish second to PSV, but while others faltered, Hato stood firm. He chipped in with eight goal contributions from defence and posted an 89% passing accuracy, earning the Eredivisie Talent of the Year award.
Those numbers are impressive, but they only hint at the qualities that make him such a sought-after talent.
Filling Chelsea’s Biggest Gap
Last season’s fixture load stretched Chelsea’s defence to its limits. Marc Cucurella clocked over 5,000 minutes with barely a rest, while Renato Veiga – signed to share the workload – is already on his way out.
Hato fits the bill perfectly. He’s comfortable as a left-sided centre-back in Maresca’s 3-2-5 build-up, but can just as easily push out to left-back when the game demands more attacking width. It’s flexibility Chelsea have sorely missed.
Composed Beyond His Years
Ajax’s academy is famous for producing technically gifted players, but Hato offers something extra – an ability to stay calm and make the right choice under pressure. Whether it’s breaking the press with a sharp pass or carrying the ball into midfield, he rarely looks flustered.
Former coach Francesco Farioli praised his rapid development, highlighting how he can “initiate attacking phases” from deep – exactly the type of skill set Maresca’s possession-heavy system thrives on.
Smart Defender, Fast Learner
Standing at six feet, Hato is no pushover physically, but he’s not a defender who dives recklessly into challenges. His 54% duel success rate shows he picks his moments carefully, and with a top speed of 33.6 km/h, he’s quick enough to recover when needed.
He’s not perfect – his 46.8% aerial win rate and preference for his left foot could be improved – but at 19, with Chelsea’s coaching staff behind him, there’s plenty of time to round out his game.
A Signing With Purpose
In today’s inflated market, £40 million for a player of Hato’s calibre and potential feels like a shrewd piece of business. Comparisons with Matthijs de Ligt are inevitable, but Hato’s versatility and left-footed balance give him an edge.
This move also comes at the right time. Fresh off a Club World Cup victory, Chelsea need depth that can keep their system intact through a grueling schedule. Hato offers exactly that – plus leadership qualities that belie his age.
The Long Game
Hato has signed a seven-year deal, a clear statement from Chelsea that they see him as part of their long-term core. Under Maresca, this doesn’t feel like a scattergun signing – it feels like part of a well-thought-out rebuild.
For a club often accused in recent years of spending without a plan, this transfer is a refreshing change. If Hato fulfils his potential, Chelsea might just have secured the foundation of their defence for the next decade.
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