Former Ajax midfielder Theo Janssen said on Monday evening on Rondo on Ziggo Sport that he believes money influences who starts up front for Ajax, and that it explains why Tolu Arokodare does not always start.
Janssen's view
Janssen said: "It has to do with money that he doesn't always play. Tolu is on loan and Leonardo was bought. Do you think the manager decides this?"
He also said: "He seems like a great bloke when you hear him speak. He is strong and can score a goal. He is simply a good player."
Amrabat disagrees
Nordim Amrabat disagrees, arguing that Tolu's contract situation does not determine his playing time.
Amrabat said: "I've kept an eye on him. After an hour, he stops pressing. Then he's tired."
Tolu's deal and numbers
Tolu Arokodare joined Ajax on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers this summer. Ajax can sign him permanently next year for €20 million, including bonuses.
His contract with Wolverhampton, who play in the Championship, runs until mid-2029. In the Vriendenloterij Eredivisie, Tolu has made 9 appearances for Ajax so far and scored 5 goals, including the winner against Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday. On Thursday, he opened the scoring against Atalanta, who were beaten 2-0 in the Conference League.
The Nigerian striker has also played 5 Conference League matches, including qualifiers.
Leonardo's numbers
Ajax also paid €20 million for Marcos Leonardo, who arrived from Al-Hilal.
Leonardo has scored in the Eredivisie only against Telstar so far, and he also scored a goal in the Conference League qualifying rounds. He spent all 90 minutes on the bench against Sparta on Sunday.