'He's changed in every way' - Goots admits he's surprised by Arokodare's incredible form

Former Belgian striker Patrick Goots has expressed surprise at the remarkable form of KRC Genk forward Tolu Arokodare in the Jupiler Pro League this season.

The Nigerian forward has been in scintillating form since the campaign began, currently leading the league’s top scorers’ chart with 13 goals—one ahead of his closest rival, Kasper Dolberg.

Even when not scoring, the 24-year-old has been instrumental in creating chances for his teammates, registering five assists so far. 

His combined 17 goal involvements make him the most influential player in the league, surpassing Dolberg, who has managed 13 contributions.

This remarkable turnaround hasn’t come easily for Arokodare. The Lagos-born forward joined Genk in 2023 from Latvian club Valmiera as a replacement for the prolific Paul Onuachu.

However, he initially struggled to replicate Onuachu's consistency, scoring just two league goals in his debut season, though came in January, and could only manage 12 goals last term but has now exceeded that tally in record time this season.

Goots, impressed by Arokodare’s progress, has admitted he hadn’t expected such a rich vein of form from the striker, given his slow start at the club.

"I certainly wasn't overwhelmed then. He had to deal with a lot of injuries. He was never really top fit," Patrick Goots told Het Nieuwsblad via voetbalnieuws.

"No, but neither did Genk. He couldn't handle 90 minutes back then. He was a different Tolu.

"Now he's a rock in the surf, who doesn't shy away from a duel and who you don't easily push off the ball. 

"He's changed in every way. He already had the qualities before, but now he's physically in tip-top shape.

"He is also of great value in combinations with Steuckers, for example. Tolu is the point of contact who has to pass the ball, which allows the entire team to advance.”

Arokodare’s impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, with Premier League clubs reportedly monitoring his progress. 

However, Genk are determined to keep their star forward at least until the end of the season as they push for the league title.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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