Tolu Arokodare reflects on his journey to Europe and success at KRC Genk

By Saheed Afolabi

KRC Genk striker Tolu Arokodare has opened up about his journey to European football, recounting the steps that led him from Lagos to Belgium, where he’s currently in scintillating form.

The 23-year-old Nigerian forward has been in blistering form this season, scoring six goals in just 10 appearances in the Belgian Pro League. Arokodare’s rise to prominence in Europe, however, began long before his current success at Genk.

“My journey started at Box2Box in Lagos, Nigeria,” Arokodare told Tribal Football.

“From there, my agent made contacts with clubs in Latvia, and I moved there. After that, I had stints with clubs in Koln, Germany, and Valmiera in Latvia before eventually settling at Genk.”

Arokodare admitted that moving to Europe and adjusting to the various leagues wasn’t always smooth, but he now feels settled at Genk, where he has grown into a key player. “I would say I feel comfortable in the league now. I understand the game here much better, and my teammates understand my style of play a lot better, too,” he said.

The forward is also thrilled with Genk’s form this season. “It’s been amazing for me, knowing that Genk is at the top of the table,” Arokodare added.

“Having played seven games and won five is really good. The atmosphere in the team is fantastic, and we are all motivated to keep pushing forward. I’m sure we will continue approaching each game with positive energy and great morale to extend our winning streak.”

At present, KRC Genk sits at the top of the Belgian Pro League standings with 22 points from 10 matches, and they will look to maintain their strong start when they face STVV on Sunday, October 20, after the international break.

Arokodare’s journey from Lagos to Belgium highlights the perseverance and determination required to make a name for oneself in European football, and with his current form, the future looks bright for the Nigerian striker.