‘We had a conversation’ – Real Madrid target Kees Smit reveals why he REJECTED a blockbuster summer transfer to stay at AZ Alkmaar

Speaking to AZ Alkmaar’s official media channels, Smit admitted he originally expected to depart during the summer. The midfielder explained that an intervention from AZ head coach Lee-Roy Echteld ultimately shifted his perspective.

“To be honest, at first I had the feeling that I was going to leave, but then it turned out that the coach really wanted me to stay,” he said, as quoted by AS. “I feel good here, surrounded by friends and family. That’s why I stayed.”

The youngster also disclosed that the Eredivisie outfit firmly closed the door on a potential exit late in the window.

“Ten days ago I had a conversation and then AZ didn’t want to let me go anymore,” Smit added. “I took it positively, because I feel like I’m not done here yet.”