Super Eagles forward Tolu Arokodare has shed light on his relationship with Ajax manager Michel Sanchez after helping the Dutch giants secure a 1-0 victory over AZ Alkmaar on Saturday, Footynaija.com reports.
The Nigerian striker proved decisive at the Johan Cruyff Arena, heading home Abdellah Ouazane’s cross in the ninth minute to hand Ajax all three points in their Eredivisie encounter.
His contribution came just days after reports suggested that Michel was unhappy with certain aspects of his performance, particularly his pressing and movement during Ajax’s 2-1 win over Sparta Rotterdam.
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The criticism raised questions about the relationship between the pair, but Arokodare has dismissed any suggestion of a problem, insisting that their bond is built on mutual understanding and a shared desire to improve.
Speaking to ESPN after the AZ victory, the 25-year-old explained that those outside of the club often misunderstood the Spanish tactician’s demanding personality.
“Believe me when I say that you will never understand what kind of relationship I have with the coach. And not just me, but almost every player,” he said, as quoted by Voetbal International.
“The bond is very dynamic, not in a negative way. You really wouldn’t believe what we all do during the meetings, in terms of match footage and things like that.”
The former Genk forward also described Míchel as an emotional but supportive manager whose high standards come from his desire to see his players develop.
Arokodare further revealed that the Ajax boss has a humorous side that supporters rarely get to see, explaining that he brings plenty of laughter and positive energy to the team’s meetings.
The Nigerian has made an encouraging start to life in Amsterdam since joining Ajax on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2026.
He has now registered 10 goals and three assists across all competitions, taking his career goal tally beyond the 100-mark and further strengthening his reputation as one of Nigeria’s in-form forwards.
