Ajax manager Míchel Sánchez has called on Super Eagles forward Tolu Arokodare to bring more intensity and pressing to his performances, even after the striker found the net during a 3-1 defeat to PSV over the weekend.

Arokodare featured from the start in the Eredivisie showdown at the Johan Cruijff Arena on Saturday, pulling his side level in the 23rd minute after Ricardo Pepi had put PSV ahead inside the opening four minutes.

Despite the equaliser, the Nigerian international was hooked in the 61st minute as Míchel turned to Kasper Dolberg for fresh legs up front.

Speaking after the match, the Ajax boss said the substitution came down to a dip in energy levels, noting that Arokodare remains a player the squad backs fully, but that the team needed sharper running and better movement to stretch PSV’s defence in the closing stages.

Míchel also admitted he had hoped for a stronger start from the striker, explaining that Arokodare was expected to anchor the attack and help Ajax retain possession, but his early touches fell below expectations.

The coach stressed that while emotions run high from the touchline, the view from the sidelines often reveals things players can’t feel in the moment, and he has since urged Arokodare to channel more drive and sharpness into his play.

PSV eventually pulled away, adding a second through Lutsharel Geertruida right before halftime and sealing the win late through Esmir Bajraktarević. Ajax now sit sixth in the standings after four rounds and head to Fortuna Sittard next.