# Janssen claims money decides Tolu’s starting place at Ajax

- URL: https://apitofinal.pt/en/internacional-en/janssen-claims-money-decides-tolus-starting-place-at-ajax/
- Published: 2026-10-29T08:26:28+00:00
- Updated: 2026-10-29T08:45:13+00:00
- Publisher: Apito Final (apitofinal.pt)
- Section: Internacional
- Tags: Ajax, Benfica, Leonardo, Theo Janssen, Tolu Arokodare

## Article

Theo Janssen has sparked controversy by claiming that financial interests influence the choice of Ajax’s starting striker. On Ziggo Sport’s programme Rondo, the former midfielder of the Amsterdam club questioned the logic behind the head coach’s decisions.

Janssen highlighted the difference between Tolu Arokodare, who is on loan from Wolverhampton, and Marcos Leonardo, who was signed permanently. He said: “The fact that he doesn’t always play has to do with money. Tolu is on loan and Leonardo was bought. Do you think it’s the coach who decides this?”

## Amrabat disagrees and points to fitness

Janssen’s claim was challenged by Nordin Amrabat, who argued that Tolu’s playing time is not related to his contract but to his fitness. Amrabat said: “I’ve been keeping an eye on him. After an hour, he stops pressing. He gets tired.”

This clash of opinions reveals tension over selection in Ajax’s squad, where the handling of financial interests and the performances of players appear to be in conflict.

## The numbers for Tolu and Marcos Leonardo

Tolu Arokodare, who joined Ajax last summer, has scored five goals in nine Eredivisie matches. The Nigerian striker was decisive on Sunday, scoring the winning goal against Sparta Rotterdam.

In the Conference League, he has played in five matches and opened the scoring in the 2-0 win over Atalanta. His form contrasts with that of Marcos Leonardo, whose output has been more modest.

The Brazilian striker, who has previously played for Benfica, has scored only one goal in the Eredivisie and another in the qualifying phase of the European competition.

Marcos Leonardo’s situation raises questions, especially after he stayed on the substitutes’ bench for more than 90 minutes in the match against Sparta. The pressure on the player is growing as comparisons with his team-mate become more obvious.

As the season goes on, Ajax’s selection decisions could influence the team’s position in the league and the futures of players such as Tolu and Marcos Leonardo. It remains to be seen who will have the head coach’s preference.