Tolu Arokodare has disclosed that joining Genk and stepping into the role previously held by Paul Onuachu, who left a significant mark at the club, brought with it a unique set of challenges and expectations.
Arokodare transferred to former Belgian champions Genk from Ligue 2 side Amiens in January 2023 for €5 million on a four-and-a-half-year deal.
The 23-year-old was signed following his compatriot Onuachu's departure to Southampton in one of the club’s most lucrative sales.
Onuachu etched his name in the Belgian club's folklore during his four-year spell with them. He left Genk with an impressive 79 goals in 114 appearances, was voted Belgian Footballer of the Year in the 2020/21 season, and won the country's top-scoring Golden Bull trophy.
Arokodare on transition to Genk and replacing Paul Onuachu
In a recent interview, Arokodare opened up about the pressures he faced, the support he received, and his journey so far with Genk.
“I was going from Ligue 2 in France to Genk. I won’t lie, there was a little bit of pressure but not a lot,” Tolu told Brila FM as per Soccernet.
“Because going there, I knew I was brought to fill in the boots of Paul Onuachu, who did a fantastic job over there.
“People just expect a lot because you’re in the Belgian League and you’re a young talent. They expect you to be spectacular and have one or two wonderful seasons and go to the Premier League or La Liga.
“So there was that pressure, but the club, the staff, and the team helped me settle down. And it's been an amazing experience so far.”
The towering striker scored 15 goals in all competitions for Genk, along with providing three assists during the 2023/2024 season to cap off a creditable campaign with the Smurfs.
Arokodare has yet to represent Nigeria at the international level.
