La Liga
Akor Adams scores twice in Sevilla return, opens up on injury comeback
By Dayo Awoniyi
Nigerian international Akor Adams marked his long-awaited return from injury with an impressive brace for Sevilla in a pre-season friendly against Schalke, offering a timely reminder of his potential ahead of the new La Liga campaign.
The 24-year-old striker, who joined Sevilla during the winter transfer window, had been sidelined for seven months with persistent injuries. His two-goal performance — his first for the club — came as a major boost for both the player and the team, following an extended recovery period.
Speaking after the match, Adams expressed his gratitude for being back on the pitch and emphasized the emotional significance of the moment.
“I always thank God for being able to score. I’ve been waiting a long time for this,” he said.
The forward admitted that rebuilding his fitness has been a careful, step-by-step process, with the coaching and medical teams closely monitoring his progress.
“I’ve trained in a controlled manner to avoid rushing back into injury. The medical team, the coach, and I will decide my playing time based on how I feel each week,” he explained.
Adams also credited head coach Matías Almeyda for playing a pivotal role in his rehabilitation and mental resilience.
“He wants me to grow, and it’s been positive so far. Preseason has been intense both physically and mentally,” he said.
Although he missed last year’s preseason due to injury, Adams revealed he returned ahead of schedule this summer, sacrificing part of his vacation to accelerate his recovery and readiness.
“Getting injured was frustrating, but sacrificing a week of vacation to get fit was worth it,” he added.
With confidence restored and full backing from Sevilla’s staff, Adams is now aiming to establish himself as a key figure in the squad as the new season approaches.
