Nigerian forward Toluwalase Arokodare, better known as Tolu Arokodare, is gaining attention with Belgian club KRC Genk, Footynaija.com reports.
Born on November 23, 2000, in Lagos, Nigeria, Arokodare went from playing football on the streets to making a name for himself in Europe.
His hard work has now earned him a place in Nigeria’s national team, as he made Eric Chelle’s final 23-man Super Eagles squad.
Early Career
Arokodare started his football journey in Nigeria, playing for Kash Academy, Flying Sports Academy in Festac, and the Segun Odegbami International College and Sports Academy.
He later moved to Box2Box FC in Surulere, Lagos, where he caught the attention of European scouts. He had trials with SC Freiburg in Germany and Toulouse in France before securing a move to Latvian club Valmiera in June 2019.
His time in Latvia was a breakthrough, as he scored 15 goals in 16 matches. This goal-scoring caught the eye of bigger clubs, and he joined German side FC Cologne on loan in the 2020-2021 season. Although he did not get many chances in Germany, the experience helped him grow.
Move to KRC Genk
In January 2023, Arokodare joined Belgian club KRC Genk, stepping in after fellow Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu left for Southampton.
This season, he has stepped up his game. As of March 14, 2025, he has scored 16 goals and provided five assists in 29 games, making him the Jupiler Pro League’s top scorer. His performances have also put him on the radar of several English Premier League clubs.
Playing Style and Strengths
Arokodare is a tall, strong striker known for his powerful headers and ability to score with both feet. Genkʼs coach, Thorsten Fink, has called him a “top striker” and praised his speed, strength in the air, and ability to finish chances. Over time, Arokodare has also improved his defensive work, making him a more complete player.
Super Eagles Call-Up
Arokodare’s hard work has paid off, as he has now earned a place in the Nigerian national team. Eric Chelle included him in his final 23-man squad, a big moment in Arokodare’s career.
With Nigeria preparing for important matches in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, the Genk forward could play a key role for the Super Eagles.
Girlfriend
Tolu Arokodare is currently not in a known relationship, following his reported split from the then 34-year-old Dubai-based influencer Pamela Mlunjwana.
Rumours have it that the two had been together for 11 months, with Pamela once seen wearing his Genk jersey in 2024. As of March, 2025, Arokodare remains focused on football, while Mlunjwana continues her work in the beauty industry. Neither has commented on the breakup.
Salary
Arokodare reportedly earns around $10,960 per week, adding up to about $569,920 per year at KRC Genk. Trabzonspor were interested in signing him but pulled out after learning he wanted €2.5 million per year, an amount they felt was too high. This suggests his value and wage demands have increased as he continues to make his mark in European football.
Titles
Tolu Arokodare has yet to win a major trophy in his professional career. However, he has shown promise with his performances in Europe, earning recognition for his goal-scoring ability.
Tolu Arokodare has come a long way, from playing in Nigeria to making a name for himself in Belgium and earning a Super Eagles call-up. With his goal-scoring form and growing reputation, the future looks bright for the Nigerian striker.