Kees Smit explains his decision to remain with AZ Alkmaar this summer

Midfielder Kees Smit confirmed he opted to stay with AZ Alkmaar after initially planning to depart the club during the summer transfer window. The Dutch player was identified as a transfer target for Real Madrid, which sought to bolster its midfield after the arrival of Bernardo Silva. According to Smit, a late conversation with team administration and the coach’s desire to keep him were the primary factors in his decision. Smit indicated he feels settled at the club and intends to continue his development there, noting he does not believe his time with the team has reached its conclusion. The midfielder acknowledged he monitored media reports regarding his future throughout the window but prioritized his current environment when committing to the team for the season.

• 1:55 PMYahoo Sports — Real Madrid midfield target reveals why he didn’t leave this summer: ‘I had a conversation’