Dusan Tadic returned to Amsterdam as a visitor on Sunday, facing his former club Ajax in a 1-1 draw with NEC. The emotional homecoming prompted the Serbian midfielder to clarify remarks he made earlier to Dutch media, accusing journalists of misrepresenting his words and twisting context.
Before kick-off, Ajax supporters displayed a banner for Tadic, the club's former captain and Europa League winner. Visibly moved, Tadic acknowledged the weight of returning to the Johan Cruijff Stadium. "I have many memories here, and a lot of emotions come out," he said, tears visible. "You see familiar faces, supporters... that is always in your head."
Clarifying the Media Storm
Earlier in the week, Tadic had suggested to NU.nl that his brain "works too fast" for NEC's tempo, claiming he often doesn't receive the ball back quickly enough. The comment sparked debate online. On ESPN after the match, Tadic pushed back firmly against the narrative. "The media are always looking for something. You can twist words, the context," he explained. "I would never disrespect people at NEC. Never. I have never done that in my life."
The midfielder drew a clear distinction between Ajax and NEC without intending offense. "Ajax are a top-10 club in Europe in terms of history, players, all aspects. NEC are a great club in the sub-top, growing with a good coach and structure," Tadic said. He emphasized the practical reality: "If you ask who has better players, Ajax or NEC? It is easier to play with good players than with less good players."
Tadic expressed frustration at how selective quotes reshape meaning. "Should I only give interviews on camera so you hear what I mean? That is sad. It does not feel good," he concluded. His message to media outlets was blunt: "In this way you make sure players no longer want to give interviews."
The 35-year-old veteran remains committed to NEC's growth ambitions as they prepare for European football next season, even as Ajax will forever hold a special place in his heart.
