Tolu Arokodare: Can César Peixoto’s appointment change striker’s fate at Wolves?

Wolverhampton Wanderers have appointed former Gil Vicente head coach Cesar Peixoto ahead of the 2026/2027 season, and that could be a game-changer for Tolu Arokodare, Afrik Foot reports.

The 46-year-old replaces Rob Edwards at the Molineux dugout after the Welsh coach was unable to save the Old Gold from relegation to the EFL Championship.

The announcement was made via the club’s official website as Peixoto joined on a two-year deal, subject to a work permit.

César Peixoto’s words after joining Wolves

Gil Vicente finished 6th in Liga Portugal last season under the Portuguese tactician, but he was delighted to make the big move to the United Kingdom when the three-time Premier League Champions came calling.

“I’m proud to be here at this big, historic club in England. It’s a big opportunity for me and I’m prepared to do everything to put Wolves where it belongs in the Premier League,” the one-time UEFA Champions League winner said after joining Wolves.

“We have great players, but I think the team can improve a lot with me and I can improve as a technical head coach. I want to put my identity onto the team, build a strong identity at the club and also help the team to grow by showing my identity and my way of playing.

“I want the supporters to be proud of our players, be proud of the way we play and the way we fight game after game to bring the victory, and to achieve the main aim, which is to put Wolves back in the Premier League,” Peixoto concluded.

Can Peixoto change Tolu Arokodare’s fate at Wolves?

Arokodare struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter despite his profile fitting the traditional Premier League mould: tall, physical, and capable of occupying defenders.

However, Wolves’ tactical inconsistency last season meant he was often isolated and forced into battles with little support.

Peixoto could change that. The Portuguese tactician has built a reputation for favouring systems that maximise his striker’s strengths. His teams typically rely on what Nigerians would typically refer to as cross-and-nod.

That suits Arokodare. At 6ft 6in, the Nigerian thrives when service is direct and consistent. In the Championship, where physical duels and aerial dominance remain crucial, that profile becomes even more valuable.

Still, there’s a pending note on the former KRC Genk striker. His clash with Matheus Mané didn’t help his reputation at the club.

While such incidents are not uncommon, the timing didn’t help as Wolves were struggling to hold on to any form of hope that would guarantee a stay in the English top-flight.

The financial situation of the club further complicates things. Championship football means reduced revenues, tighter wage structures, and inevitable squad reshuffles.

Players with solid market values suddenly become assets for the club to part ways with and make an income to stay afloat.

With interest from Turkish clubs looming, a move away from Molineux might be best for all parties.