Finn Azaz, a 24-year-old midfielder for Middlesbrough, is on a mission to reach the Premier League. Having already secured back-to-back promotions from League Two with Cheltenham in 2021 and League One with Plymouth in 2023, he aims to complete the hat-trick with Boro this season. This ambition was ignited during an FA Cup encounter with Manchester City in 2021, where, despite Cheltenham taking an early lead, City’s late surge, spearheaded by Phil Foden, highlighted the gulf Azaz needed to bridge to reach the top flight. The experience served as both a humbling lesson and a source of motivation, reinforcing the dedication and improvement required to compete at the highest level.
Azaz’s journey has been one of steady progression. After three years at Aston Villa without a competitive appearance, his loan spell at Plymouth proved pivotal. Racking up an impressive 15 goals and 15 assists in 67 games, he demonstrated the potential that led Middlesbrough to secure his services for £2 million in January 2024. Since then, his performance has flourished, earning him the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month award for November and a call-up to the Republic of Ireland national team. His current season boasts 14 goal contributions (six goals, eight assists), positioning him among the Championship’s leading creative forces. His ultimate goal remains clear: promotion with Middlesbrough and World Cup qualification with Ireland.
Azaz credits much of his recent success to Middlesbrough manager, Michael Carrick. The former Manchester United and England midfielder has instilled a demanding yet supportive environment at the club. Carrick’s meticulous approach to training, emphasis on individual roles, and calm demeanor have fostered a strong bond within the squad and propelled Azaz’s development. The midfielder highlights the high tempo and detailed nature of training sessions, where every player understands their responsibilities and is held to high standards. This clear communication and trust between players and management have created a positive atmosphere at the Riverside Stadium.
Beyond the tactical and technical improvements, Azaz emphasizes the strong team spirit cultivated by Carrick. The camaraderie among players extends beyond the pitch, with regular social activities at the training ground fostering a close-knit environment. This sense of unity and shared purpose is a key factor in Middlesbrough’s push for promotion, creating a supportive atmosphere where players are motivated to stay and engage with one another even after training hours. This positive team dynamic, combined with Carrick’s leadership, has Middlesbrough well-positioned for a successful season.
Azaz’s heritage offers a fascinating backdrop to his footballing journey. Born to an Israeli mother and an Irish father, he cherishes his connection to both cultures. He frequently visits Israel, particularly enjoying the vibrant city of Tel Aviv and the historical significance of Jerusalem. This diverse upbringing adds another dimension to his personality, reflecting a global perspective and appreciation for different cultures. He balances his demanding football schedule with a desire to connect with his roots, finding time to explore and appreciate the rich history and vibrant life of his family’s homeland.
Looking ahead, Azaz’s New Year’s resolution for 2025 is simply “to be present.” This concise statement speaks volumes about his focus and determination. It encapsulates his commitment to maximizing each moment and striving for continuous improvement, both on and off the pitch. Given his consistent upward trajectory, it’s highly plausible that his presence in 2025 will indeed be felt in the Premier League, fulfilling the ambition sparked by that fateful encounter with Phil Foden and Manchester City. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of mentorship, and the transformative impact of a positive team environment.
