Nigeria international Tolu Arokodare has praised Ajax’s strong winning culture after enjoying a dream start to his loan spell from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Footynaija reports.
The Super Eagles forward says he knew he had joined a special club from his first training session.
The 25-year-old only completed his season-long move to the Dutch giants last week but has already made an instant impact. He marked his unofficial debut with a goal in Ajax’s 3-1 pre-season win over FC Volendam and believes the club’s mentality has impressed him more than anything else.
“My first impression of Ajax is amazing,” Arokodare told De Telegraaf. “The mentality is fantastic. Everyone within the club knows, of course, what happened last season. We also all know what we have to do this season, and you feel that immediately as soon as you step onto the training pitch.”
Ajax endured a disappointing campaign last season, but Arokodare says every player is focused on restoring the club’s status.
“Everyone wants to win, everyone wants to get back to the top. That is fantastic. I want to help the team, score goals, and fight for the squad,” he added.
The Super Eagles forward joined Ajax on July 29 after completing his medical and signing his contract with technical director Jordi Cruijff. The deal includes a €22 million option to make the transfer permanent, while Arokodare also became the eighth Nigerian to play for Ajax.
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His first goal came just 17 minutes after replacing Marcos Leonardo against Volendam, scoring in the 88th minute to wrap up the victory.
Arokodare also highlighted the warm reception he has received from everyone at the club.
“The players gave me a wonderful welcome. You can see that in how we treat each other. When Leo (Marcos Leonardo, ed.) scored, everyone on the bench was applauding him and everyone was happy for him. It is a very warm group.”
He also praised the coaches, technical director and supporters.
“The coaches are also very approachable. Moreover, Jordi Cruijff is a very modest and down-to-earth person. The supporters are amazing. I feel right at home here immediately. As I said: the club exudes a winning mentality and always wants to reach the top. As a footballer and as a person, you must always have that mentality. That is wonderful.”
Interestingly, UEFA has confirmed that Arokodare is eligible to play for Ajax in their Conference League third qualifying round clash against Shelbourne.
