Rafael van der Vaart has publicly defended Tolu Arokodare's position in Ajax's attacking lineup, dismissing concerns about the Nigerian forward's role following the club's 3-1 defeat to PSV. The former Tottenham midfielder believes Míchel Sánchez made a puzzling decision to substitute Arokodare early in the second half, despite the striker having just equalised at 1-1 after 23 minutes.
"I thought that was a strange substitution," Van der Vaart stated on Ziggo Sport's Rondo programme. "Things were going fine and he had scored. Then trust him and leave him on for once." The pundit's comments highlight a broader debate about Ajax's attacking hierarchy, where Arokodare currently sits ahead of both Marcos Leonardo and Kasper Dolberg in the pecking order.
Arokodare's All-Round Game Impresses Analysts
Fellow analyst Theo Janssen praised Arokodare's versatility and technical awareness. "What is nice about this striker is that he can also control balls around the halfway line," Janssen observed. "He is so calm, can hold people off, lays the ball off simply and then sprints towards goal again. He does not have to do any crazy things at all."
Wim Kieft echoed this assessment, emphasising how Arokodare's physical profile and work ethic align with Ajax's tactical needs. "With the qualities he has, you also have to judge him that way. He is big and strong, you can play the ball into him," Kieft explained. "What he has to do, he does extremely well." This consensus reflects growing confidence in the 24-year-old Nigerian's ability to deliver consistent performances in the Eredivisie, where Ajax pursue their tenth league title.
Leonardo and Dolberg Face Uncertain Futures
While Arokodare appears settled as the primary striker option, Van der Vaart retains faith in Marcos Leonardo despite the Brazilian's slow start. "I still believe in him," the pundit stated, referencing director Jordi Cruyff's backing. However, Van der Vaart expressed genuine concern about Kasper Dolberg's trajectory. "Of course, you still also have Dolberg, who in terms of potential is the very best. Only somehow it is no longer going to happen for him," Van der Vaart concluded, suggesting the Danish striker's Ajax career may be reaching a crossroads.
Ajax face mounting pressure to find consistency in attack as they battle for domestic and European honours. Arokodare's recent performances suggest he has earned the right to lead the club's frontline in the weeks ahead.
