From Jupiler Pro League top scorer to bench: Antwerp coach sheds light on Arokodare's struggles

Royal Antwerp manager Stef Wils has shed light on the current struggles of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare at KRC Genk, stressing the forward’s bench role in recent weeks despite his impressive track record.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Antwerp’s clash with KV Mechelen, Wils referenced Arokodare while discussing his own squad’s transfer activity. 

"Balikwisha and Lammens are fully involved, unlike, for example, Tolu Arokodare at KRC Genk, who is sticking to substitute appearances,” the coach told Het Laatste Nieuws via Voetbal Primeur.

The remarks highlight the contrasting fortunes of the 24-year-old striker, who was one of the standout performers in Belgium last season. 

Since joining Genk in January 2023, Arokodare has developed into a reliable attacking option, finishing the 2023/24 campaign as the Belgian Pro League’s top scorer with 21 goals and six assists in 40 matches.

However, his reduced playing time has fueled speculation around his future. 

Napoli are reportedly pushing to sign Arokodare after an injury setback to Romelu Lukaku left the Italian giants searching for attacking reinforcements. 

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Napoli initiated contact with the forward’s representatives on Tuesday, with Genk valuing him between €20-25 million.

Despite his club uncertainty, Arokodare remains in the plans of the Nigerian national team. 

He was named in Eric Chelle’s 31-man provisional squad announced on Friday for Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa in September.

For now, the striker faces a delicate balance between fighting for minutes at Genk and weighing up potential moves abroad, with Wils’ comments bringing further attention to a transfer saga that could intensify in the coming weeks.

Wale Adejumo

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