‘I have to play in a bigger competition' — Super Eagles hopeful Arokodare laments bias in national team selection

KRC Genk’s Nigerian striker, Tolu Arokodare, has opened up about the challenges he faces in earning a call-up to the Super Eagles.

As a player outside Europe’s top five leagues, Arokodare has acknowledged that he must work significantly harder than his counterparts in more prominent competitions to get noticed by the national team selectors.

In an interview with De Standard, the 23-year-old striker expressed his frustration at the bias towards players in top-tier European leagues.

Arokodare highlighted the tough reality he faces as a player in Belgium’s Jupiler Pro League, acknowledging that players in more prestigious competitions are given preference for national team selection.

“For the national team, I know that I have to play in a major competition in the long term,” Arokodare said, adding, “If a Nigerian striker scores three times in the Premier League or the Bundesliga, I know that I have to score at least eight times to have a chance of being called up.”

Despite these challenges, Arokodare remains focused on his club football, where he continues to perform consistently for Genk.

Since joining the club from Amiens SC in January 2023, the towering forward has scored 23 goals in 73 appearances, becoming a key figure in the team’s attack.

Arokodare’s impressive performances in the Jupiler Pro League, including six goals in ten appearances this season, have caught the attention of clubs abroad, and Premier League side Fulham are reportedly monitoring his progress as they consider strengthening their attacking options.

However, Arokodare remains grounded, focusing on his current role at Genk while hoping for a chance to represent Nigeria on the international stage.