From goalscorer to role model: Arokodare inspires Racing Genk rising star amid transfer buzz

As transfer speculation continues to swirl around Tolu Arokodare, the Racing Genk striker is already making an impact off the pitch—sharing vital experience and advice with the club’s next generation.

Arokodare, who is widely expected to attract offers from bigger clubs this summer, was singled out for praise by young teammate Robin Mirisola. 

Promoted recently to Genk’s first-team squad, Mirisola has revealed how the experienced striker has been guiding him as he adapts to senior-level football.

"Tolu in particular has already given me useful tips, about my positioning in front of goal for example,” Mirisola told Belgian daily Het Belang van Limburg via Voetbalkrant. 

The young forward, who found the net in a pre-season practice match against Eendracht Termien, noted how the tempo and decision-making at the top level demand greater awareness.

"Because everything goes faster, you don’t get time to think,” he explained. 

“Now I have to know what I plan to do before I get the ball. I also watch the other strikers well during training.”

Mirisola highlighted a specific piece of advice from Arokodare: "If Steuckers cuts inside now and I see his head go up, I’ll head towards the far post because I know there’s a good chance the ball will end up there."

This mentoring role emphasizes Arokodare’s growing influence within the Genk dressing room, even as reports suggest he could leave the club in the coming weeks. 

The 24-year-old has impressed since arriving in Belgium, catching the eye of scouts from major European leagues. 

His potential departure would follow Genk’s established pattern of developing talented forwards before moving them on to bigger stages.

Arokodare had an outstanding campaign last season, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 21 goals in 40 matches and scoring 23 times across all competitions.

His prolific performances were recognised with the prestigious Ebony Shoe award, which honours the best player of African descent in Belgian football, as well as a well-deserved place in the league’s Team of the Season.

Wale Adejumo

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