AEK confirm Ponce won’t return
AEK have officially confirmed that Argentinian striker Ezequiel Ponce, who scored 21 goals across all competitions in the 2018/2019 campaign, won’t return for next season.
On loan from AS Roma, Ponce was a shining light for AEK in the 2018/2019 season, leading the attacking line brilliantly to score 21 goals. Many hoped the 22-year-old Argentinian forward would remain in Athens, but on Monday, AEK confirmed that he won’t return for the 2019/2020 campaign:
“AEK FC announces the end of Ezequiel Ponce’s loan from AS Roma. Last summer, the Argentine striker joined our club and enjoyed a great season from an individual point of view, registering 21 goals in 43 appearances.
We thank you for your contributions in the AEK shirt, while respecting your decision and wishing you every success in the future. At some point, our paths will cross again!”
Ponce commented on his decision to leave AEK:
“I am grateful to AEK and to the people who helped me adjust. I would like to thank them for the professionalism which they have displayed throughout the year.
For my part, I would like to think that I repaid their love with my everyday work here. When on the pitch, I gave my best in order to help the team. I would like to express my warmest thanks to the fans, the president, my coaches, my teammates and the staff. My decision to leave AEK is due to the fact that I want to play in a more competitive league.
AEK will always be a part my career and my heart. I have received a proposal from another team in the country, but for me, AEK is the only club in Greece. I wish AEK the best! See you again!”
It’s believed that Olympiacos had previously spoken to Ponce in regards to a possible transfer to Piraeus.
AEK EAGER TO SIGN KROVINOVIC
Reports have emerged suggesting that AEK are eager to sign Croatian attacking midfielder Filip Krovinovic from Benfica.
In 2017, Krovinovic transferred to Benfica from Rio Ave for 3.5 million euros, but the 23-year-old has subsequently struggled to earn a place in the starting line-up. This season, the Croat was restricted to a mere 11 matches in all competitive tournaments, not contributing with any goals or assists.
Newly appointed AEK boss, Miguel Cardoso, knows Krovinovic from his time at Rio Ave and is keen on signing the attacking midfielder this summer. Transfermarkt rates Krovinovic’s value at five million.
