Arokodare’s winning goal fuels Ajax’s Conference League triumph and sparks loan‑to‑permanent talks

Ajax secured a 2-0 victory over Atalanta in Thursday’s UEFA Conference League group match, with Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare providing the opening goal that set the tone for the Dutch side’s comfortable win. The goal, a well‑timed finish after Marcos Leonardo’s tireless work up front, underscored Arokodare’s growing importance despite arriving on a loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The win not only puts Ajax in a strong position to advance from the group but also brings the future of the 23‑year‑old into sharp focus. Arokodare is currently on loan until summer 2027, with Ajax holding an option to buy for a fee reported to be between €18‑20 million. While the club’s hierarchy has not commented publicly, the striker hinted that a permanent move is on the table.

When asked by ’s Mike Verweij whether he would consider staying in Amsterdam beyond the loan, Arokodare replied unequivocally: “Of course I’m open to that. I love it here – the people, the supporters, the team, the club – everything is great.” He added a light‑hearted note, “But William is even nicer,” referring to journalist Willem Vissers who had praised his humility during the post‑match press conference.

Arokodare’s stoppage‑time strike drives Ajax past Sparta in Rotterdam

Arokodare’s modesty extended to his on‑field contribution. “If you’re an Ajax player you’re important whether you start or not. Even on the bench you help your teammates improve in training,” he said, before expressing satisfaction with his decisive strike: “I’m just happy I could help the team with the first goal and contribute to the win.”

The striker also addressed the tactical decision that saw him begin the match on the bench. He explained that coach Maurice Steijn opted to keep Marcos Leonardo, who had performed well in the previous game, in the starting eleven. “I’m a patient person. Leo deserved his place, and his movement created the space for me to score later,” Arokodare noted.

Outside the pitch, Arokodare’s charisma shone during the press conference, where he thanked Vissers for his compliments and jokingly urged the media pool, “Can everybody please be like William?” The remark sparked laughter and highlighted the player’s growing popularity among the Dutch press.

With Ajax now poised to progress in Europe and the transfer deadline looming, Arokodare’s performances could tip the scales in favour of a permanent switch. The club’s next steps will likely hinge on both his continued impact on the field and the financial negotiations with Wolves.