'You'll be in the Premier League'- Genk striker Arokodare reveals who convinced him to snub Trabzonspor

Tolu Arokodare has been in impressive form for Belgian Pro League side Genk this season, scoring eight goals and providing three assists in 13 matches.  

However, his journey to becoming a key player for Genk was almost derailed last summer when Turkish club Trabzonspor came knocking.

The 23-year-old revealed that he was close to joining Trabzonspor due to the lack of positive energy surrounding him at Genk. 

The Nigerian striker felt undervalued and was attracted to the financial benefits offered by the Turkish club.

Despite his impressive goal-scoring record, Arokodare faced doubts from some analysts and podcasters, who preferred South Korean strikerOh Hyeon-gyu in the starting lineup. 

However, Genk coach Thorsten Fink remained steadfast in his support for Arokodare.

As reported by Het Laatste Nieuws via VoetbalNieuws, Arokodare shared the convincing words from Fink that made him stay at Genk: "Why? Because there was no more positive energy around me. I felt like I couldn't do anything right anymore. 

"Financially, I could also do a good thing. Fink reassured me completely. He didn't think I was a player for Turkey. 'Stay with me for one year and you'll be in the Premier League', he said. Something like that gives you a lot of confidence."

The former Valmiera hitman's decision to stay at Genk has paid off, with the striker establishing himself as a crucial player for the Belgian side. 

However, his impressive form has not gone unnoticed by fans, who are questioning his omission from Nigeria's squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches. 

Interim manager Austin Eguavoen announced his 23-man squad, leaving out Arokodare despite his impressive goal-scoring record.

Ejim Kaycee

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