Sam Sodje urges patience over Akor Adams’ Venezia switch

Former Nigeria defender Sam Sodje has defended Akor Adams’ decision to join Venezia, arguing that the striker’s move should not be judged solely by the club’s reputation or standing in European football.

Adams joined Venezia this summer from Sevilla FC in a transfer that could eventually be worth up to €23m. The Nigeria international opted to continue his career in Italy with a club that had only recently been promoted to Serie A.

That choice has prompted debate in Nigeria, with some supporters believing the 26-year-old should have moved to a more established side with a stronger profile in European football.

However, Sodje, who represented the Super Eagles and also played for Brentford and Leeds United, believes the prestige of a club is not the only factor that should be considered when assessing Adams’ decision.

Speaking to Footy-Africa, Sodje used the recent development of several clubs to support his argument. His view is that a team’s current status does not necessarily determine its future prospects, and that players can still advance their careers by joining clubs seeking to establish themselves at a higher level.

Adams is now under contract with Venezia until 2030 and will attempt to make his mark in Italy’s top division. The move gives the striker another opportunity to take his career forward and show that choosing Venezia was a carefully considered decision.

According to Transfermarkt, Adams’ current market value is estimated at €15m. Before leaving Spain, he was reported to have earned €1,880,000 a year, equivalent to 1,222,000,000 CFA francs.

The forward’s next challenge will come in the third round of the Italian league, when Venezia are due to face Frosinone. The fixture will provide an early opportunity for Adams to make an impression in Serie A after his arrival from Sevilla FC.

The match has also been listed by betting company 1xBet, which gives Frosinone odds of 2.75 to win. A draw is priced at 3.30, while a Venezia victory is rated at 2.40.

Adams’ move has therefore placed him at the centre of a wider discussion about ambition, reputation and the best route for a player seeking to progress. While some supporters questioned the decision to join a newly promoted side, Sodje’s defence reflects the belief that a club’s potential can be as important as its current profile.

With a long-term contract in place and a new campaign in Serie A ahead of him, Adams now has the opportunity to provide the clearest answer on the pitch.