“I Don’t Understand” – Kwakman Questions Arokodare Substitution in Ajax’s Defeat to PSV

Former Dutch footballer Kees Kwakman has questioned Ajax manager Míchel Sánchez’s decision to substitute Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare during Ajax’s 3-1 Eredivisie defeat to PSV.

Arokodare was one of Ajax’s standout attacking players at the Johan Cruijff ArenA on Saturday, scoring the equaliser after PSV striker Ricardo Pepi had given the visitors the lead.

However, despite his goal and physical presence up front, the Nigerian striker was taken off in the 61st minute, with Kasper Dolberg introduced in his place as Ajax searched for a way back into the game.

Kwakman Questions Arokodare Substitution

Speaking on ESPN programme Dit was het Weekend, Kwakman admitted that he was surprised by Sánchez’s decision to remove Arokodare from the pitch.

“I didn’t understand why Tolu was substituted.”

Kwakman also raised concerns about Ajax’s communication during the substitutions and argued that Arokodare’s physical qualities could have been particularly useful during the closing stages, when Ajax needed another goal.

“You Always Have to Keep Tolu On”

Kwakman believes Ajax should have kept the Nigerian forward on the pitch for longer because of the problems his strength and physical presence can cause opposing defenders.

“And Tolu, you always have to keep him on.”

He also pointed out that Arokodare had completed 90 minutes against Telstar in his previous appearance, although he acknowledged that the PSV match carried a higher level of intensity.

For Kwakman, however, Arokodare’s ability to occupy defenders made him an important weapon for Ajax, particularly when the team was chasing the game.

“As an Ajax fan, I think you would rather see Tolu messing around up there for another fifteen minutes.”

Tolu Arokodare Finding His Form at Ajax

Arokodare joined Ajax on loan from English Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers after a difficult spell in England.

The move to the Netherlands has given the Nigerian striker an opportunity to rebuild his confidence, and he has responded with an impressive run of form.

The Ajax forward has now scored five goals and provided two assists in seven appearances across all competitions, underlining his growing importance to the Dutch giants.

His goal against PSV was another positive moment despite Ajax ultimately suffering a 3-1 defeat.

Arokodare will now be looking to maintain his scoring form and continue making a strong impression in Amsterdam. His performances could also influence Ajax’s decision on whether to pursue a permanent transfer at the end of the season.

For Nigerian football fans, the striker’s resurgence will be one to watch closely as Arokodare continues his development at one of Europe’s most historic clubs.