Tolu Arokodare Opens Up on Bond With Wout Weghorst

Super Eagles forward Tolu Arokodare has shared how his close relationship with Dutch striker Wout Weghorst came about, revealing it began with a conversation after Genk faced Burnley in a pre-season friendly in 2023.

Arokodare explained in an interview with ESPN NL that he had been a keen admirer of Weghorst's work rate during his time at Manchester United, especially his tireless pressing and movement without the ball. Looking back on their first encounter, he said:

“I’m a Manchester United fan. When he played there, I was very surprised by his work ethic. I was very surprised and impressed by how hard he works and his running off the ball. I went to him and asked: I’m not very good defensively when it comes to pressing; what do you do that gives you so much energy, strength and stamina? I can’t remember the exact message, but he said something like: it’s all about mentality. It’s something he had since he was a child, but he has also worked on it.”

He added: “Since then, he and I have had that friendship and that bond. We follow each other on Instagram.”

The Nigerian striker also disclosed that he sought Weghorst’s counsel before completing his move to Ajax, with the Dutchman speaking highly of the club.

The two forwards were on opposite sides recently when FC Twente held Ajax to a 2-2 draw, with both men getting on the scoresheet.