Show More Energy” — Ajax Coach Míchel Sánchez Warns Tolu Arokodare

Ajax coach Míchel Sánchez has challenged Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare to show greater energy and determination after Ajax suffered a 3-1 defeat to PSV in the Eredivisie.

According to Ireporter Online, Arokodare started the encounter at the Johan Cruijff Arena and scored Ajax’s equaliser in the 23rd minute after PSV striker Ricardo Pepi had opened the scoring four minutes into the match.

However, the Nigerian forward was substituted in the 61st minute, with Kasper Dolberg introduced as Míchel sought to add more energy to Ajax’s attacking play.

The Spanish coach explained that Arokodare had struggled to reach his best level during the game and that Ajax needed fresh legs to maintain pressure on PSV and exploit spaces behind their defence.

“Due to a lack of energy. He is a player we all support,” Míchel said.

He added that Arokodare was expected to play an important role as Ajax’s focal point by helping the team retain possession and build attacks.

Míchel admitted that he was dissatisfied with some of the striker’s early actions but stressed that he remained supportive of the Nigerian.

“I have asked him to put more determination and energy into his actions,” the coach said.

Despite Arokodare’s equaliser, PSV regained the lead through Lutsharel Geertruida in first-half stoppage time before Esmir Bajraktarević sealed the victory with a late third goal in the 92nd minute.

The defeat leaves Ajax sixth in the Eredivisie table with seven points from four matches, increasing the pressure on the team to improve its performances in the coming fixtures.