Arokodare optimistic about Super Eagles future after leading Nigerian scoring charts in Europe

• Nigerian forward Tolu Arokodare is the top-scoring Nigerian player in Europe’s top 15 leagues
• The 23-year-old forward has scored six goals in 10 games for Genk this season
• Genk currently sits atop the Belgian league with 22 points from 10 matches

Genk forward Tolu Arokodare, who has taken European football by storm this season, is in no rush to earn a Super Eagles call-up despite his remarkable form. 

The young Nigerian sensation leads the scoring chart among Nigerian players in Europe’s top 15 leagues, outpacing stars like Victor Boniface, Akor Adams, and Victor Osimhen. Yet, he remains patient, knowing that the competition for places in the Super Eagles is fierce.

Arokodare’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. From his humble beginnings in Latvia with Valmiera to stints at Koln and Amiens, where he shared the pitch with seasoned players like Gael Kakuta and Papiss Demba Cissé, he has steadily climbed through the ranks. Now at Genk, the prolific striker has netted six goals in just 10 games, helping his team secure the top spot in the Belgian league.

Despite his standout performances the forward failed to make the AFCON qualifiers squad list released by coach Eguavoen, Arokodare however acknowledges the challenge of breaking into Nigeria’s star-studded attack, 

“We have huge talent in our attack obviously, and the whole squad is full of talents, I haven’t been contacted by the NFF, but with time, if I keep performing right and doing the right things, I think I will get that call soon.”

Even without a national team call-up, Arokodare is focused on maintaining his form and helping Genk stay at the top of the table. His six goals have placed him among the league’s top scorers, and Genk currently leads the standings with 22 points from 10 games. 

The striker credits his team’s success to strong determination among his teammates, 

“It has been amazing for me here knowing that Genk is at the top of the table, we will continue to approach each game with positive energy and great morale for the team to continue the winning streak.”

As Arokodare’s stock continues to rise, other European clubs have reportedly taken notice, with Trabzonspor among those interested in the 23-year-old striker. However, Arokodare has his eyes set on the Premier League. 

Unlike his compatriot Victor Boniface, who has expressed disinterest in playing in England, Arokodare sees the Premier League as a dream destination, 

“For me, I would love to play in the Premier League; it will be a dream come true for me,” he said.

Popular Chelsea defender reportedly eyeing Super Eagles switch

Previously, TheRadar reported that as whispers grow louder about Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo potentially switching his international allegiance from England to Nigeria, interim Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen has spoken out. 

The 27-year-old defender, born in England to Nigerian parents, has represented England at youth levels but is yet to break into Gareth Southgate’s senior squad. With his omission from the Euros squad, Adarabioyo may be reconsidering his options, making the switch to Nigeria seem increasingly likely.