Chuba Akpom Set to Leave Ajax Amid Lack of Playing Time Nigerian international Chuba Akpom is set to leave Ajax on loan with an option to buy before the transfer window closes. According to Dutch newspaper Telegraaf, the former Arsenal striker is attracting interest from several clubs, including Fiorentina Italy, Lille France, and Sunderland England. Akpom, who pledged his international allegiance to Nigeria, is reportedly frustrated with his current role at Ajax, where he is not being played as a striker. This discontent has driven his decision to seek regular playing time elsewhere. Editorial Chuba Akpom’s imminent departure from Ajax highlights the challenges that talented players face when they are not utilised effectively. Since joining the Dutch side, Akpom’s potential has been underutilised, mainly due to being played out of position. For a striker who thrives on goals and regular minutes, this situation was always going to be unsustainable. A loan move to Fiorentina, Lille, or Sunderland could be exactly what Akpom needs. Fiorentina’s attacking style in Serie A, Lille’s reputation for developing players in Ligue 1, or a return to the familiar environment of the English Championship with Sunderland all offer promising opportunities. Each destination presents a chance for him to re-establish himself as a goal scorer and remind everyone of the form that made him the 2022/23 Championship Golden Boot winner with Middlesbrough. Akpom’s situation is a lesson in the importance of fit. No matter how talented a player is, being in the wrong system or position can diminish their impact. Ajax’s failure to accommodate him as a striker was a missed opportunity. Now, his new club must ensure that he is given a central role where his goal scoring instincts can be fully maximised.