Genk Torn Between Transfer Deal, Arokodare’s Talent

Former Belgium international and ex-Genk goalkeeper, Jacky Mathijssen, has weighed in on the striker dilemma at KRC Genk, calling for Tolu Arokodare’s inclusion in the starting lineup despite the club’s plans to sell him.

The 24-year-old Nigerian forward, who clinched the Belgian Pro League golden boot last season with 21 goals under manager Thorsten Fink, has seen only 40 minutes of action across Genk’s first two games this season. South Korean striker Hyeon-gyu Oh has been favoured in the starting role.

The decision to bench Arokodare—Genk’s top scorer last season—has stirred reactions among fans who question why the club’s proven marksman is left out of the lineup.

Speaking to Belgian outlet Voetbal Belgie, Mathijssen said the current situation is a balancing act for coach Fink, who is reportedly navigating internal agreements regarding transfers and player roles.

“I think Genk was more in favour of Tolu than Oh as the top striker. Of course, I know that agreements have been made between the club and the two players,” Mathijssen said.
“One is promised a transfer, the other the position of first striker, but as long as Tolu is still there, Fink is still a bit between a rock and a hard place with his strikers. Trapped between agreements and sporting achievements.”

Arokodare is currently at the centre of transfer speculations, with reported interest from Premier League clubs Fulham and Newcastle, Serie A’s Atalanta, and Bundesliga sides Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart.

Despite the cloud of uncertainty over his future, Mathijssen believes that as long as Arokodare remains at the club, his talent and scoring ability should earn him a place in the starting XI.

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