Arokodare Eying Premier League? Genk Striker’s Remarkable Season Sparks Transfer Speculation
Toluwalase Arokodare, the 24-year-old Nigerian striker for Genk, is attracting attention after a stellar season in the Belgian Pro League. With 20 goals in 38 games, he’s prompting speculation about a potential move to a larger league, possibly reigniting interest from the English Premier League. However, previous unsuccessful transfers of Genk’s top scorers to England cast a shadow of doubt.
arokodare Shines in Belgium
Arokodare’s current form marks a important enhancement from his previous season, where he scored 15 goals in 52 appearances. While his goal tally doesn’t quite reach the heights of Paul Onuachu’s record-breaking seasons (including 33 goals in the 2020/2021 campaign), Arokodare has established himself as a potent force in the Belgian league.
The Onuachu and Samatta Precedent: Premier League Stumbles
History suggests caution for Premier League clubs eyeing Genk’s leading marksmen. The transfers of Mbwana Samatta to Aston Villa and Paul Onuachu to Southampton serve as cautionary tales. Both players struggled to replicate their Belgian form in England. Onuachu, despite a prolific spell at Genk, managed only four goals in 37 appearances for Southampton. This history raises questions about whether Arokodare can buck the trend.
Arokodare’s Strengths and Potential Concerns
Arokodare’s strengths lie in his aerial ability, frequently winning a significant number of aerial duels compared to his peers in the Pro League. He also demonstrates a strong presence in the game, as he touches the ball more often and creates more chances than a majority of other forwards in the league. However, his high shot volume, attempting more shots than nearly all other players in the league, coupled with underperforming compared to his expected goals (xG) of 24.8 (with 45 of 134 shots on target, according to FotMob data), might be a cause for concern for potential suitors.
Premier League Interest? A Wait-and-See Approach
Despite his impressive statistics, the previous experiences may make premier League clubs hesitant. While Arokodare’s goal-scoring record is undeniable, clubs might potentially be wary of repeating past mistakes, potentially causing them to look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements. The summer transfer window will reveal whether Arokodare can overcome these ancient concerns and secure a high-profile move.
Arokodare eying Premier League? Genk Striker’s Remarkable Season Sparks Transfer Speculation - Q&A
Q: Who is Toluwalase Arokodare?
A: Toluwalase Arokodare is a 24-year-old Nigerian striker currently playing for Genk in the Belgian Pro League. He’s making headlines due to his impressive goal-scoring form.
Q: How good has Arokodare been this season?
A: He scored 20 goals in 38 games this season. This is a significant enhancement from his previous season, where he scored 15 goals in 52 appearances.
Q: Why is there speculation about a Premier League move?
A: His goal-scoring record has caught the attention of clubs in larger leagues, with the English Premier League being a potential destination. This is the result of his impressive performance this season.
Q: What are the concerns about Arokodare moving to the Premier League?
A: History. Previous Genk top scorers like Mbwana Samatta adn Paul Onuachu struggled to replicate their goal-scoring form in the Premier League. Also, despite the amount of shots taken, his goals scored are not as expected.
Q: What are Arokodare’s strengths?
A: He is good in aerial duels, creates many chances, and is active in the game. He touches the ball frequently.
Q: What are his weaknesses or potential concerns?
A: He takes a lot of shots, and he is underperforming compared to his expected goals (xG). He is attempting more shots than nearly all other players in the league, but his goal output doesn’t quite match the number of chances he gets.
Q: What does “xG” mean?
A: “xG” stands for “expected goals.” It’s a statistical model that assesses the probability of a shot resulting in a goal, based on factors like shot location, assist type, and defensive pressure. It helps evaluate a player’s finishing ability and the quality of chances they get.
Q: What does Arokodare need to do to succeed in the Premier League?
A: He needs to improve his shot accuracy and scoring efficiency. Adapting to the faster pace and higher level of competition in the Premier League is also crucial.
Q: What’s next for Arokodare?
A: The summer transfer window will be key. It will determine whether he gets a chance in the Premier League or remains in Belgium.
Q: Is there a good example of a Genk player succeeding in the Premier League?
A: Not really. Arokodare would have to defy the odds and the past of genk players.
Keep an eye on the summer transfer window to see where Arokodare’s career takes him!
