Tolu Arokodare backs Ajax to achieve big things this season
Tolu Arokodare believes Ajax have the talent and ambition to make a serious impact this season, pointing to the club’s strengthened squad as a reason for optimism. The striker has been impressed by the quality around him in Amsterdam and says the team has the potential to compete for major honours.
Ajax have made clear their intention to challenge for the Eredivisie title, with technical director Jordi Cruyff bringing in several high-profile players during the summer. Among the arrivals named by Arokodare are Germany international Julian Brandt and goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen. Their experience and ability have added to expectations that Ajax can quickly return to the top of Dutch football.
“We really do have a great squad,” Arokodare told Het Laatste Nieuws. His confidence is based not only on the reputation of the new signings, but also on what he sees from them in training and matches.
Brandt’s intelligence stands out to Arokodare
Arokodare singled out Brandt as a player who can change the rhythm of a game with his decision-making. The forward is particularly impressed by the midfielder’s awareness of when to release the ball quickly and when to turn away from pressure.
“Julian is unbelievably good in matches. He leaves you open-mouthed,” Arokodare said. “He knows exactly when to play it first time and when to turn away.”
That kind of composure could be valuable for Ajax as they look to control matches and create chances against organised Eredivisie opponents. Brandt’s technical quality and experience at the highest level may also help younger players adapt to the demands of a title race, where consistency and calm decision-making can matter as much as individual flair.
Ter Stegen makes training a challenge
While Brandt has impressed Arokodare with his work in possession, Ter Stegen has made an equally strong impression between the posts. The goalkeeper’s shot-stopping ability has proved a regular obstacle for the striker during training sessions.
Arokodare joked that facing the German goalkeeper can be frustrating, especially when he manages to save shots that appear destined for the net. He also described Ter Stegen’s playful reaction after a save: pretending to unzip a pocket to suggest the ball is already there.
“Sometimes it’s downright irritating when you see the shots he still saves,” Arokodare said with a laugh. “You’d want to give him a slap.” The remark was clearly light-hearted, but it also underlines the competitive edge inside Ajax’s training ground. For a striker, regularly testing himself against a goalkeeper of Ter Stegen’s calibre can be demanding—and potentially valuable preparation for match day.
Arokodare praises Ajax’s manager, facilities and supporters
The striker’s enthusiasm extends beyond the squad. He also spoke warmly about manager Míchel Sánchez and the wider environment at the club, describing his experience in Amsterdam as exceptionally positive.
“I love him. I love everyone here. Ajax feels like heaven,” Arokodare said. He praised the training complex, the stadium, the supporters and the team’s style of play, suggesting that the club has created an atmosphere in which he feels comfortable and motivated.
That sense of belonging can be important for a player aiming to build on a strong season. A settled environment, clear coaching and regular support from fans can help a forward find rhythm, particularly when expectations rise. Ajax’s challenge will be to turn that positive feeling into results across a long campaign, where injuries, fixture congestion and pressure can test even the strongest squads.
Consistency is Arokodare’s next major test
For Arokodare, personal success is not simply about producing one impressive season. He is determined to establish himself as a reliable performer and avoid being labelled a one-season wonder.
“I pray it continues like this. I’m working hard for it too, because I don’t want to be a one-season wonder,” he said. “I’d hate it if they said that about me next year. The rest of my career needs to look like this season. Consistently performing at a high level is the hardest thing there is.”
His comments reflect a challenge familiar to forwards: repeating strong performances after opponents have studied their strengths and expectations have increased. Maintaining form requires more than scoring goals. It can involve improving movement off the ball, contributing to the team’s pressing, making the right decisions in crowded areas and staying physically ready throughout the season.
Ajax supporters will be watching closely to see whether Arokodare can sustain his impact as the campaign develops. If he does, his contribution could become an important part of the club’s title push—and strengthen the case for Ajax to make his stay permanent.
Ajax purchase option and Premier League ambitions
Arokodare has openly expressed hope that Ajax will activate the purchase option in his agreement, reported to be worth around €20 million. That figure would represent a significant commitment, making his performances over the coming months especially important for both the player and the club.
Still, the striker does not view an Ajax future as the only possible path. He believes he has the qualities to succeed in the Premier League, despite acknowledging that his previous experience in England did not go as well as he wanted.
“I think I have the qualities for it, yes,” Arokodare said. “Could I have done better last year? Of course. I think everyone can do better in any situation. I did everything I could, though. It just didn’t work out.”
That balanced assessment leaves room for both ambition and reflection. A successful spell at Ajax could help him sharpen his game, build confidence and demonstrate that he can deliver consistently at a high level. It could also give the club a clearer picture of whether investing in the purchase option makes sense.
Football prediction: Ajax face a demanding title test
Ajax’s summer recruitment has raised expectations, but a strong squad alone does not guarantee silverware. The team must develop cohesion, manage pressure and turn individual quality into consistent performances. Brandt’s creativity, Ter Stegen’s saves and Arokodare’s attacking contribution could all prove influential as the season unfolds.
Any football prediction about Ajax’s campaign should therefore balance optimism with caution. The club appears to have the depth and ambition to challenge, while Arokodare’s confidence suggests belief is growing within the dressing room. Their progress will ultimately depend on how effectively the new arrivals settle and whether key players can maintain their form through the decisive stages of the season.
For now, Arokodare is enjoying life at Ajax and focused on making his performances last. If he continues to deliver—and the squad lives up to its promise—the club’s title ambitions may become more than hopeful talk.
