Arokodare embraces Ajax challenge and praises ‘excellent’ coach Michel

Tolu Arokodare says he has made an “incredible” start to life at Ajax Amsterdam after joining the Dutch club on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers this summer, while also expressing his admiration for new head coach Michel.

The Nigeria striker has quickly settled in Amsterdam and is enjoying the atmosphere around a club determined to return to the top of Dutch football.

Arokodare told ESPN that Michel’s approach has made a strong impression on him, particularly the manager’s willingness to take part in training exercises alongside his players.

“When we do a rondo, he always takes part. If he makes a mistake, he apologises in Spanish. I think he is an excellent coach, the kind you need in a team. He likes hard work and has a fighting spirit, but he also likes to have fun. I love that,” said Arokodare.

A rondo is a keep-away exercise commonly used in football training, with players attempting to retain possession while one or more teammates try to win the ball.

Arokodare’s description of his new arrival at Ajax suggests his contribution extends beyond his physical presence as a centre-forward. The striker also spoke warmly about Michel’s personality and his efforts to connect with the squad.

“If he is happy with you, he wants you to know it. He does not hesitate to show it. A photo of the two of us holding hands was even sent to the team. That shows how passionate he is,” Arokodare said.

He added that Michel is working to improve his English, despite not yet speaking the language perfectly.

“His English is not perfect, but I understand that he is working hard to improve it. Sometimes we laugh when he speaks because he says funny things, even in meetings. Sometimes he says: ‘Sorry, sorry!’ or ‘Please, please!’ Once, in the middle of a meeting, he said: ‘OK, let’s go!’ It was hilarious.”

Arokodare has been equally positive about his own first weeks with Ajax. He said he had received a warm welcome from the team and praised both the club’s supporters and his new surroundings in the Netherlands.

“My first weeks at Ajax have been fantastic. I was welcomed incredibly well by the team. The supporters are wonderful and the Netherlands is a beautiful country. It is very peaceful and clean. I really appreciate that,” he said.

The striker also highlighted the winning mentality he has found at Ajax, a club whose ambition, according to Arokodare, is to re-establish itself at the highest level.

“At Ajax, everyone has a winning mentality. We always want to be the best. We have to set ourselves that goal. We want to get back to the top. That is what we are trying to achieve this season,” he said.

“I am enjoying it and I will do everything to make it happen.”