In recent years, the Chinese Super League (CSL) has become one of the most competitive leagues in Asia, attracting top foreign players from around the world to compete for the title. However, while some foreign players have made significant contributions to their teams' success, others have struggled with inconsistent form or even failed to make any impact on the field.
One player who has faced this challenge is Akpembe, a Nigerian international who joined the CSL side Jiangsu Suning in the summer of 2019. Since then, Akpembe has been part of a team that has struggled to find consistent form and has only managed to win three out of their nine games so far this season.
The impact of foreign players on team performance is a complex issue that cannot be easily explained by statistics alone. While foreign players can bring new ideas and techniques to a team, they also face cultural differences and language barriers that can affect their integration into the squad.
For Akpembe, the transition from his native Nigeria to China has not been easy. He has struggled to adapt to the physical demands of the CSL and has found it difficult to fit into a team that relies heavily on individual skill and creativity rather than collective play.
Despite these challenges, Akpembe has still managed to score two goals in his time at Jiangsu Suning. His goal against Shanghai SIPG in December was a testament to his ability to create scoring opportunities, but he has yet to score again this season.
Overall, Akpembe's experience at Jiangsu Suning highlights the importance of finding the right balance between foreign players and local talent in the CSL. While foreign players can provide valuable skills and experiences, they must also be able to integrate into a team and contribute positively to its success. As such, the league will need to continue to invest in developing local talent and providing opportunities for players like Akpembe to develop and grow within their respective clubs.