Super Eagles: 2 ways Venezia’s coaching change could benefit Akor Adams

Venezia have appointed Davide Nicola as their new head coach following the dismissal of Giovanni Stroppa earlier this week and that could benefit Super Eagles forward Akor Adams.

The newly promoted Serie A side have endured a difficult start to the season, losing all six of their opening league matches. They currently sit at the bottom of the standings after scoring just five goals and conceding 16, with their poor form ultimately costing Stroppa his job.

Adams, meanwhile, joined Venezia from Sevilla in a club-record deal during the summer but has struggled to make the desired impact so far.

The Super Eagles striker has scored just once in six Serie A appearances, although he has also found the net twice in the Coppa Italia.

However, with Stroppa gone and Nicola taking charge, Adams will hope the coaching change can help him rediscover his scoring form and become a more influential player in the team.

Super Eagles: How Akor Adams could benefit from Venezia’s coaching change

1. A tactical change could improve Adams’ goal output

Stroppa favoured a 3-5-2 formation during his time at Venezia, although the system did not bring the best out of Adams during the club’s difficult start to the campaign.

Although Nicola has also used a 3-5-2 system, he is very flexible and can change his approach to suit his players and the demands of games and this flexibility could give Adams a better chance of finding his feet at his new club.

Venezia have struggled to create enough goalscoring opportunities, managing just five goals in their opening six league matches. 

If the new coach can improve the supply of chances from midfield and the flanks, Adams could benefit from more opportunities to use his physical presence, hold up the ball and get into dangerous positions inside the penalty area.

The Super Eagles forward’s physical abilities would also fit Nicola’s pattern of play and he will be eager to take advantage of any tactical adjustments that allow him to contribute more consistently in front of goal.

2. Nicola’s arrival could help Venezia fight relegation

Another way the coaching change could benefit Adams is by giving Venezia a better chance of escaping the relegation battle.

The club’s poor start has left them in a difficult position, and another unsuccessful campaign could see them return to Serie B just one season after securing promotion to the Italian top flight.

Nicola has experience working with teams fighting to retain their Serie A status and he could help Venezia retain their top flight status as well.

If Venezia can improve defensively and start collecting points, Adams may have a better way to develop his game without the pressure of playing for a side that is constantly struggling.

However, Nicola will need time to implement his ideas, and while the change of coach alone does not guarantee an immediate turnaround, the Super Eagles forward must also make the most of the opportunities that come his way.

Nicola will take charge of his first match against Napoli on Saturday, October 17, as he looks to make a positive start and guide Venezia to their first Serie A victory of the season.

Adams, meanwhile, will hope the arrival of a new coach provides the fresh start he needs to add to his goal tally and justify Venezia’s club-record investment in him.