Nigeria Players Abroad
Genk coach Thorsten Fink explains Arokodare’s bench role despite top-scoring season
By Dayo Awoniyi
Racing Genk head coach Thorsten Fink has clarified his decision to start the 2025/26 Belgian Pro League season with Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare on the bench, despite the forward finishing last season as the club’s top scorer.
Speaking ahead of Genk’s high-profile season opener against Club Brugge, Fink revealed that new South Korean signing Hyeon-gyu Oh has been handed the lead striker role for now—strictly as a tactical decision.
“We’ve given [Oh] the confidence to start the season as our first striker. He’s earned it,” Fink told Het Belang van Limburg. “But that doesn’t mean we can’t use Tolu. Fortunately, he’s handling it very well.”
Arokodare, 24, was instrumental in Genk’s 2024/25 campaign, netting 21 goals and providing six assists across 40 appearances. His form has reportedly drawn interest from clubs across Europe, including AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, and Fulham.
Despite speculation about his future, Fink said Arokodare remains a crucial part of his plans, especially in a season where depth and flexibility will be vital to Genk’s title push.
“Arokodare is a top striker,” Fink previously noted, praising his aerial ability, sharp movement, and growing contribution to defensive transitions. He added that Arokodare remains his “go-to option” should Oh require rotation or replacement mid-game.
With new additions like Aaron Bibout still adapting to Genk’s style, the manager emphasised the importance of reliable alternatives in the final third.
While Arokodare won’t start the opening fixture, his role as a proven impact player ensures his influence will remain pivotal throughout the campaign.
