Why Tolu Arokodare is winning Ajax fans over beyond his goals

Tolu Arokodare’s goals have made him an important player at Ajax, where he is currently on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

However, Arokodare’s reaction to Marcos Leonardo’s goal against FC Midtjylland has shown another side of the Nigerian striker.

Arokodare scored twice and provided an assist as Ajax beat Midtjylland 6-1 in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday night. The 25-year-old has now scored 12 goals and provided three assists in 16 appearances across all competitions.

Yet, despite his own impressive display, he was particularly happy to see Leonardo get on the scoresheet.

The Brazilian replaced Arokodare in the 70th minute and scored Ajax’s sixth goal with a fine finish. It was his third goal for the club after a difficult spell in front of goal.

What Tolu Arokodare said about Leonardo

Speaking to Ziggo Sport after the match, reporter Noa Vahle suggested that Leonardo’s goal had made Tolu Arokodare especially happy. The former Genk star, who inspired a record-breaking Ajax performance, confirmed the observation.

“How do you know that?” Arokodare asked with a smile. “That’s true. After he scored, I said I couldn’t deny that it was perfect now.”

Arokodare said he was impressed by Leonardo’s work rate, pointing out that the Brazilian kept pressing even after scoring.

“As I’ve said in previous interviews, he works hard. And many people won’t have noticed that after he made it 1-6, he was still pressing hard. Even in the 92nd minute. I told him that showed a good mentality.”

The Nigerian added: “I’m happy for him. It was a good goal, too. And hopefully it gives him more confidence. This is a team sport. If I don’t score, hopefully Leo does. And if Leo doesn’t score, hopefully the other players do. If everyone scores, the team win. So I just hope for the best for the whole team.”

De Boer praises Arokodare’s attitude and goals

As much as his goals, Tolu Arokodare’s large heart is winning hearts over in Amsterdam, including that of a Dutch legend.

Former Ajax midfielder Ronald de Boer has pointed out two qualities that have endeared him to the Super Eagles forward since his arrival in Amsterdam. De Boer applauded Arokodare’s attitude as well as the goals that have flowed freely from the Nigeria international.

The former Barcelona ace, praised Arokodare for supporting a player who competes with him for a place in the attack.

“It gives you a bit of an insight into the group process and shows that the group dynamic is good.”

He continued: “When you say this about your team-mate, who is, after all, a bit of a rival… Sometimes you can say it’s for show, but with him you can tell he really means it. It’s good to see. I think the manager will be pleased with this.”

De Boer also pointed to Arokodare’s improvement in front of goal. The striker scored six times last season but has already doubled that tally and is targeting at least 18 goals.

“You have a striker full of confidence. Twelve goals already. He had six last season, and he has said he wants to triple that. So at least eighteen. He’s well on his way. At the moment, he’s the undisputed number one,” De Boer concluded.

Tolu Arokodare has also won over Ajax supporters with his friendly approach, often taking time to interact with fans. He has previously summed up his personality by saying: “He has a big heart.”

Ajax are reportedly pleased with the Nigerian’s attitude and have the option to sign him permanently from Wolverhampton Wanderers.