Arokodare Responds to Training Disruption Claims
Nigeria and Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Tolu Arokodare has publicly denied reports that he gate-crashed a club training session during pre-season in Faro, Portugal. The 25-year-old Super Eagles striker issued a statement on his X account after media outlets claimed he refused to leave a session he was not authorised to attend, leading manager Cesar Peixoto to cancel training.
According to Mirror UK, additional security personnel were deployed the following day before training could proceed normally. Arokodare, who joined Wolves from Genk, expressed surprise and disappointment at the reports, which he described as largely inaccurate.
Arokodare's Statement on Professionalism
“I was very surprised and disappointed to see the media reports today, many of which are inaccurate,” Arokodare wrote. “Throughout my career, I have always taken great pride in conducting myself professionally and maintaining the highest training standards. My commitment has always been to prepare myself as well as possible so that I can contribute to my teammates and the club whenever I am called upon.”
The striker made clear that he considers himself a Wolves player until any transfer is formalised. “I remain under contract with Wolves, and my only intention is to fulfil my responsibilities professionally by training, doing my job, and contributing to the team in accordance with that contract,” he added.
Transfer Uncertainty and Future Options
A proposed transfer to Italian club Fiorentina collapsed after it emerged the Serie A side has no available non-EU player slot, leaving Arokodare's future unresolved. The club is currently evaluating other options as the summer transfer window progresses. Arokodare has agreed to part ways with Wolves after one year, but he insists he will honour his contractual obligations until a move is finalised.
Potential FIFA Implications
Legit.ng previously reported that Wolves risked FIFA trouble following the training ground incident with Arokodare. FIFA and FIFPRO’s recent regulations prohibit the alleged banishment of players from training for unjust causes unless it is for a medical issue. The episode has drawn attention to the club's handling of the situation and could have regulatory consequences if deemed a breach of player rights.
