Tolu Arokodare relishing Ajax winning culture after dream debut

Tolu Arokodare says the winning mentality at Ajax has made the biggest impression on him since joining the Dutch club on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Nigeria striker has made an immediate impact in Amsterdam, scoring just days after completing his move. However, the 25-year-old believes the determination within the squad to restore Ajax to their accustomed position at the top of Dutch football is the most encouraging aspect of his early experience.

Ajax finished below their usual standards last season, and Arokodare says everyone at the club is focused on helping them recover.

The 1.97-metre forward officially became an Ajax player on Wednesday, 29 July, completing his medical at the Johan Cruijff ArenA before signing his contract with technical director Jordi Cruijff.

His loan agreement includes a non-compulsory €22m (£17-18m) purchase option. The transfer also made Arokodare the eighth Nigerian footballer to represent Ajax, following in the footsteps of notable former players including Nwankwo Kanu and Finidi George.

After completing the formalities, Arokodare went to De Toekomst, Ajax’s training base, where he met his new team-mates, carried out media duties and took part in his first session with the senior squad.

He did not have to wait long to make his mark.

Arokodare was introduced as a substitute in the 71st minute of Ajax’s pre-season friendly against FC Volendam on 2 August, replacing Marcos Leonardo. Seventeen minutes later, he reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the six-yard box and finished calmly in the 88th minute to complete a 3-1 victory.

The goal provided a perfect start to his time at the club, but Arokodare says the welcome he has received has been just as important in helping him adapt to a new country and team.

He has praised Ajax’s staff and supporters for making the transition easier, saying their backing has allowed him to settle quickly in Amsterdam.

His preparations for the new campaign have also received a further boost after UEFA confirmed he is eligible to play in European competition.

That decision makes Arokodare available for Ajax’s UEFA Conference League third-round qualifying tie against Irish club Shelbourne. He will now hope to continue building on a promising opening to his spell with the Dutch giants.

Arokodare joined Wolverhampton Wanderers before moving to Ajax on loan, with the Amsterdam club retaining the option to make the transfer permanent for the agreed fee. His debut goal against FC Volendam has given him an early opportunity to establish himself as part of Ajax’s plans as they attempt to return to the top after a disappointing previous season.