Tolu Arokodare has enjoyed a productive start to life at Ajax, establishing himself as one of the most prolific Nigerian forwards in European football this season.
His form has strengthened his profile ahead of Nigeria’s latest international fixtures, but the striker knows that performances at club level do not always translate into the same returns with the national team.
Speaking exclusively to Foot Africa in Uyo on Thursday, November 12, the 25-year-old reflected on the differences between representing his club and playing for the Super Eagles, while explaining how he intends to approach the challenge.
“I am having a very good start in Ajax and I haven’t really scored as much with the support it gives to the national team, but I think it’s fair to say that every time I come here, playing or not playing, I’ve done my part, which is helping the team, supporting the team, helping my teammates if I’m playing, if I’m not playing.
“The training has to help them, we help each other improve and obviously the goals haven’t been coming as much as they do in club-side football, but like we all know, playing for your country and playing for a club is different, you know, different styles, different dynamics.”
READ MORE: Chelle opens up on decision that left Maduka Okoye out of Super Eagles squad
Arokodare’s numbers at Ajax underline the contrast he was discussing. He has scored 13 goals and provided four assists in 17 appearances across all competitions during the 2026/27 campaign.
The forward has found the net seven times in the Eredivisie and six times in the UEFA Conference League, giving him an impressive return as he continues his first season with the Dutch club.
His performances have also attracted attention beyond the Netherlands. Turkish football commentator Burak Eren recently praised the striker’s contribution, describing him as a useful attacking option who could complement Victor Osimhen in the Nigeria team.
However, Arokodare is not allowing the difference between his club and international scoring records to affect his confidence.
The Ajax forward insisted that patience and continued hard work remain central to his approach, as he looks to reproduce his goalscoring form in a Super Eagles shirt.
“I just have to keep working, I have to keep staying patient, keep staying positive and hoping that I’ll be able to replicate the same that I do at my club.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Arokodare’s international record currently stands at one goal in 10 appearances for Nigeria, with his only strike coming during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
He is part of Eric Chelle’s squad preparing for Friday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania in Uyo, with the Super Eagles looking to strengthen their position in Group L.
