Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has received glowing praise from former Ajax midfielder Marciano Vink, who believes the Nigerian forward possesses considerably more technical quality than his imposing physique might suggest.
Arokodare has made an impressive start to his loan spell at Ajax after joining the Dutch giants from Wolverhampton Wanderers during the summer transfer window.
The 25-year-old has already contributed five goals and two assists in eight appearances across competitions, quickly becoming an important attacking option for the Amsterdam club.
Vink was particularly impressed by one moment involving Arokodare in front of goal, when the striker brought the ball under control with his chest before attempting to finish with his weaker left foot.
Although the effort went wide, the former Ajax star said the sequence demonstrated the Nigerian’s ability to execute difficult technical actions despite his large frame.
According to Vink, Arokodare’s control and movement in a tight area showed a level of footballing ability that could easily be overlooked because of his physical presence.
He described the piece of skill as evidence of the striker’s technical class and suggested that Arokodare’s game offers much more than strength and aerial ability.
Arokodare exceeding expectations
Arokodare’s rapid impact in Amsterdam has reportedly surprised Vink, particularly after the striker endured a challenging campaign with Wolves last season.
The Nigerian scored six times in 38 appearances for the English club during the 2025/26 campaign, but his return to the Netherlands has produced a much stronger start.
In just 355 minutes for Ajax this season, Arokodare has recorded five goals and two assists, meaning he has contributed a goal or assist approximately every 71 minutes.
His goals have also come across different competitions, with three scored in the UEFA Conference League and two in the Eredivisie.
The striker previously demonstrated his physical qualities during Ajax’s European campaign, including a two-goal performance against FC Sion.
However, Vink believes his technical ability deserves equal attention.
One area still needs improvement
While praising Arokodare’s overall game, Vink identified heading as an aspect the Nigerian can still improve.
The former Ajax midfielder nevertheless maintained that the striker’s combination of size, strength, movement and technical ability makes him a difficult player for opposing defenders to contain.
Arokodare’s performances have already changed the conversation around his role at Ajax, with his strong start increasing competition for the centre-forward position.
The Nigerian’s form will also be closely watched in his homeland as Nigeria prepare for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
With his confidence growing and his goals continuing to arrive, Arokodare is increasingly making a case for himself as one of the Super Eagles’ forwards to watch this season.
