Former Ajax and Borussia Dortmund manager Peter Bosz has praised Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare for his impressive start at the Dutch giants. Arokodare joined Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan deal with an option to make the move permanent. He had previously made his mark in Belgium with Genk, finishing the 2024/25 campaign as the league's leading scorer.
Arokodare has quickly rediscovered his goalscoring form since returning to the Netherlands. He has scored six goals in nine appearances for Ajax across all competitions this season, including three in the Eredivisie, while also providing two assists. His performances have caught the attention of Bosz, who currently manages Ajax's rivals PSV Eindhoven.
Bosz was asked about Ajax's recruitment of experienced players during the summer transfer window and acknowledged the significant improvement to the squad. He singled out Arokodare as an unusual addition to the Dutch league, highlighting the physical qualities the Nigerian brings to Ajax's attack. Arokodare's height, physical strength, and ability to provide an outlet have made him a valuable asset.
At 1.97m, Arokodare offers Ajax a different attacking dimension, particularly with his height and physicality. He has quickly translated those qualities into goals, opening his Eredivisie account against Telstar on August 30 and scoring against PSV and Excelsior in September. His goals in European competition have taken his overall tally to six in nine appearances.
Arokodare's resurgence represents a significant turnaround following a difficult debut season in England. The striker was largely restricted to substitute appearances during Wolves' relegation campaign but still managed six goals across league and cup competitions. His loan move to Ajax has provided the Nigerian with a more prominent role.
The revival is also encouraging for Nigeria, with Arokodare offering Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle another attacking option alongside established striker Victor Osimhen. With his combination of height, mobility, physicality, and goalscoring ability, Arokodare is developing into a different type of threat for the national team.
Bosz's comments highlight why Arokodare's emergence could prove valuable to both the Amsterdam club and the Super Eagles. The Nigerian's early form has already raised the possibility of the Dutch club exercising the option to sign him permanently. Arokodare's impact at Ajax has been significant, and his future in the Eredivisie looks bright.
Key points
- Peter Bosz praises Tolu Arokodare's physical qualities and impact at Ajax.
- Arokodare has scored six goals in nine appearances for Ajax this season.
- Arokodare's resurgence could provide Nigeria with another attacking option.
