Mentor Swart urges Godts to improve after record Eredivisie season

Mika Godts finished the last Eredivisie campaign as its most valuable player, netting 17 goals and providing 12 assists. Mentor Sjaak Swart, known as Mister Ajax, believes the 21‑year‑old Belgian can still raise those numbers.

Swart and former Dutch international Hedwiges Maduro attended the unveiling of the new Ajax kit. The Amsterdammers will debut the strip in the Conference League when they meet FK Vojvodina.

When asked which player he expects big things from this season, Maduro replied, “I hope Godts keeps his good play, then it will go well.” Swart echoed the sentiment, adding that better listening would further boost Godts’ development.

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Swart once told the youngster, “If you go for the keeper, say ‘good night’,” a phrase he always used himself. Godts tried it recently, scored twice, and later his father approached Swart to thank him, calling the gesture wonderful.

Rudi Garcia did not select Godts for the World Cup squad of the Red Devils. With the probable appointment of Mark van Bommel as Belgium coach, Godts will be eager to attract attention again.

Swart identified a tactical habit that limits Godts’ output, noting he still often looks for the far corner, a pattern goalkeepers anticipate. He urged the forward to shoot more against the run, a change that could add many goals, and praised Godts for usually listening and being a good boy.