Moving to a new country can be a major test for any footballer: adapting to a different language, culture, dressing-room dynamics and a distinct style of play can take time. For Akor Adams, settling into Spain has not been an overnight switch, but a gradual process of learning, adjustment and steady growth.
Adams’ rise at Sevilla and the challenge of adapting
Since joining Sevilla FC from the French top flight, the Nigerian forward has steadily grown into a key presence at the club. While his goals have naturally drawn attention, it is his speed of adaptation to Spanish football that has stood out to many observers.
Speaking at a LALIGA media session, Adams explained the practical differences between football in France and Spain, outlining what he believes makes the transition so demanding.
- In France, he described Ligue 1 as being more physical and instinctive, with plenty of younger players.
- In Spain, he said LALIGA demands more tactical and technical execution, with heavy emphasis on fine details and experience.
What he changed on the pitch
For Adams, adapting was never only about finding the back of the net. He has worked to sharpen his movement, react faster, and better understand where he needs to be during matches. In his view, intelligence with the ball in Spain matters as much as raw pace and strength.
He also acknowledged that constant managerial turnover at Sevilla has added another layer of difficulty. Still, Adams framed those upheavals as part of the realities of professional football rather than an excuse.
- He said professionals do not get much time to fully understand a new setup.
- He added that players must learn quickly and adapt to what the coach demands.
Lessons from teammates and a run of scoring form
Off the field, Adams has drawn inspiration from experienced figures in the squad, with Alexis Sánchez highlighted as a major influence. Adams praised the Chilean veteran’s football intelligence and approach.
- Adams said it is clear Sánchez “is football,” adding that he thinks the game and communicates in football terms.
- He explained that observing Sánchez closely during training has helped his decision-making and his movement inside the box.
The effect of Adams’ development is now showing regularly on the pitch. The striker is currently enjoying one of his strongest stretches of the season, scoring in three consecutive LaLiga matches. In doing so, he became the first Sevilla player to achieve the feat since Lucas Ocampos did it in 2020.
Adams carried that momentum into international football as well. He found the net for Nigeria against Mozambique and Algeria during the Africa Cup of Nations.
Even with the rising praise around him, the forward has kept his focus on getting even better.
- He said he does not judge his season until it is finished.
- He added that he wants to score more goals and create more assists to help the team.
Timeline of goals and what they’ve meant for Sevilla
Adams’ current run has become more than a personal milestone. It is also a key part of Sevilla’s wider improvement, with the forward delivering decisive moments while the team has shown clearer progress in its ability to respond and stay competitive through to the final whistle.
His form has been especially influential in the league. In January, he scored in three straight LaLiga games, netting four goals across that sequence and becoming the first Sevilla player to score in three consecutive league appearances since Lucas Ocampos reached the same mark in 2020.
The streak has been built on consistency across different settings and competitions.
- The sequence began against Real Oviedo.
- It was extended in LaLiga against FC Barcelona.
- During Africa Cup of Nations duty, he also scored against Mozambique in the round of 16.
- He then added another goal versus Algeria in the quarter-finals.
- After returning, Adams continued his momentum in LaLiga, scoring against Elche CF and Athletic Club.
The significance of his goals is reflected in Sevilla’s results. In the five official matches this season in which Adams has scored, the club have collected 13 points out of a possible 15. That tally underlines how often his finishing has swung games in Sevilla’s favour at key moments.
Just as importantly, his output has fed into a broader collective shift. Sevilla have shown a greater willingness and ability to react during matches, staying in contention until the final whistle and being rewarded for that persistence. With Adams establishing himself as one of the standout attacking players, his story in Spain is increasingly about finding his place as well as finding the net.
