Genk’s decision to sanction the sale of star striker Tolu Arokodare to Wolverhampton Wanderers is proving costly, with the Belgian outfit slipping to 14th in the Jupiler Pro League after taking just eight points from their opening eight games.
The Nigerian forward left on deadline day in a €26m deal, ending a productive spell in Belgium where he struck 41 goals and supplied 12 assists in 113 games. While Wolves are still waiting to see the best of him in the Premier League, his absence has left a gaping hole at Cegeka Arena.
Why Genk are struggling without Arokodare
Veteran coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck did not mince words when speaking about Genk’s current plight.
“Genk hasn’t kept a clean sheet for nineteen games in a row. Nineteen games! That’s a lot for a top club. Those are the numbers of a relegated team. That means you have to score at least two goals every match… Only last season, that was converted into goals more quickly, thanks to Tolu.” — Hein Vanhaezebrouck, via Voetbalkrant
The coach highlighted how Arokodare’s finishing gave Genk an edge: they often took the lead, played with greater confidence, and controlled matches more effectively. Without him, chances are being wasted and pressure builds when they fail to strike first.
Arokodare’s Wolves adaptation
Since his move to Molineux, Arokodare has made just two appearances for Vitor Pereira’s side and is still adapting to Premier League intensity. Wolves signed him amid uncertainty around Jørgen Strand Larsen’s future, viewing the Nigerian as both cover and competition in attack.
Genk’s decline in numbers
| Stat (2025/26 season) | Genk |
|---|---|
| League Position | 14th |
| Points | 8 (from 24) |
| Clean Sheets | 0 (last 19 games) |
| Goals Scored | — |
source: Jupiler Pro League records – September 2025
The lack of clean sheets adds to the pressure. Without Arokodare’s clinical edge, Genk are unable to outscore opponents as easily as last season.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William argues that Genk’s recruitment department must act quickly. “Selling Arokodare was always going to hurt, but the lack of a like-for-like replacement is glaring. His physical presence and finishing gave balance to Genk’s style. Without him, they dominate possession but lack the killer instinct.”
Key insights
- Tolu Arokodare sold to Wolves for €26m on deadline day.
- Scored 41 goals and 12 assists in 113 games for Genk.
- Wolves appearances: 2 so far, yet to score.
- Genk without a clean sheet in 19 consecutive matches.
- Hein Vanhaezebrouck insists Genk “miss Tolu” badly.
What’s next for Genk and Arokodare?
For Genk, the focus must be on finding a new focal point in attack before their season slips further. With defensive issues persisting, a reliable striker is even more critical. January may force their hand in the market.
For Arokodare, patience will be required as he beds in at Wolves. If he can translate his Genk form to the Premier League, his transfer could prove shrewd business. Until then, Genk’s struggles will be a painful reminder of the goals they’ve lost.
👉 Should Genk have reinvested in a proven striker immediately after Arokodare’s departure, or was selling him inevitable business?
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