Former Nigeria defender Sam Sodje has defended Akor Adams’ decision to join Venezia, despite questions from some Nigerian supporters over the transfer.
Adams joined Venezia from Sevilla in a deal worth up to €23m during the summer transfer window, with the Spanish club looking to raise funds and meet financial requirements.
The move surprised some fans, given Sevilla’s profile and Venezia’s recent promotion to Serie A. However, Sodje believes the club’s long-term project may have played a major role in convincing the Nigeria international.
“It depends on who wanted him and what the project looked like – we don’t know the package involved,” Sodje told Footy-Africa.
The former Brentford and Super Eagles defender compared Adams’ situation with Frank Onyeka’s move from Brentford to Coventry City, arguing that the size or reputation of a club does not always tell the full story.
“From a fan’s perspective, we want to see him at bigger clubs, but we never really know what project gets pitched to a player,” Sodje said.
He also pointed to Como’s rapid rise in Italian football as an example of how quickly a club’s ambitions can change.
Adams has made an encouraging start at Venezia, scoring twice and providing one assist in three appearances across all competitions.
The 25-year-old will now look to maintain his form as Venezia aim to establish themselves in Serie A.
