Paul Onuachu’s replacement opens up about abusive messages and controversial move to Genk

KRC Genk acquired the Nigerian striker during the January transfer window to replace Paul Onuachu, who left the Belgian Pro League team to sign with Southampton

KRC Genk striker, Tolu Arokodare, has revealed that he continues to receive abusive messages in Belgium due to his unexpected decision to join Genk after almost finalizing a transfer to Anderlecht during the January transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.

On the deadline day in January, the 22-year-old attacker ignited discussions, and it appears that Anderlecht’s supporters are still upset about his decision to leave their club after completing his medical tests with them.

Arokodare was lured to the Cegeka Arena in January from Amiens in France as a replacement for another Nigerian, Paul Onuachu, who left Belgium to join Southampton in England.

Speaking to OJB Sports, the attacker revealed that the deals offered by the two Juplier Pro League sides differed, prompting him to choose the more beneficial.

The Nigerian came off the bench to secure a late draw for the Buffaloes with his first league goal of the season and celebrated by waving to the Anderlecht fans, a gesture perceived by some as disrespectful.

After scoring the equalizer during Genk’s 1-1 draw against Anderlecht on Sunday, the striker appeared to have silenced his critics with his celebration.

However, in a previous report, he clarified that his celebration was not meant to disrespect the opposition or their fans, but rather directed towards those who had sent him abusive messages since his move to Genk in January.

“That wasn’t to provoke them; you should know that I got a lot of offensive messages from Anderlecht supporters before the match. During the warm-up, they also tackled me again. So after my goal, I just waved at them to say, ‘Hello, I’m still here.'” Arokodare explained.

Arokodare also discussed his decision to sign with Genk in an interview with OJB Sports, clarifying his deals with Anderlecht in January.

“It was not about money, and I think anybody in my shoes would have done the same thing.” he said, “Genk were ahead of Anderlecht in the league at that time, and a number of Nigerians have succeeded at Genk. I felt more wanted here because Anderlecht was even a loan move, but Genk wanted to buy me. It was about who showed more interest,” he explained.

Despite facing injury setbacks after joining the Smurfs, the striker has managed to score crucial goals for Genk, notably the late equalizer against Anderlecht on Sunday evening.