Venezia head coach Giovanni Stroppa has praised Nigeria striker Akor Adams, describing him as “definitely a good player” while suggesting that improving his defensive work could help him develop into a complete modern forward in Serie A.
Adams joined Venezia from Sevilla in a €17 million transfer and made an immediate impression by scoring twice on his debut against Modena in the Coppa Italia.
The 25-year-old has yet to find the net in Serie A, having played two matches for his new club, but Stroppa believes the striker has already shown qualities that can make him an important player for Venezia.
Speaking to pazzidifanta, Stroppa said Adams had the technical ability required to succeed, while identifying further areas for development in his overall game.
“Under the technical aspect, there is always room for improvement. On the tactical aspect, he makes the first pressure, goes deep and goes at the goal: he is definitely a good player.”
Stroppa’s comments come as Venezia continue to work on their organisation without the ball. The coach has stressed the importance of Adams and his team-mates maintaining tactical discipline, particularly by keeping the correct distances between the lines during matches.
Although Adams has not yet scored in the Italian top flight, his two-goal Coppa Italia debut provided an encouraging start to his career with Venezia. His arrival from Sevilla made him one of the club’s significant attacking additions, and his performances are being closely watched as he adapts to the demands of Serie A.
Stroppa also reflected on Venezia’s wider performance, saying the team had produced a strong first half but failed to convert its chances into goals and points.
“We played a great first half, but we didn’t score. The result is missing and you have to score points.
“We work for performance and we can be satisfied with the level of play. But we pay for the episodes and we have to be more careful. The opportunities created are too many not to bring points home”, he concluded.
The Venezia manager’s assessment combines encouragement with a clear demand for improvement. Adams’ ability to apply pressure, drop deeper and attack the goal has impressed Stroppa, but greater defensive contribution and collective discipline will be required as the Nigerian international continues his adaptation to Italian football.
For now, the striker’s first Serie A goal remains outstanding after two appearances, following the memorable double that announced his arrival against Modena in the Coppa Italia.