Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler has explained that Simon Adingra’s pursuit of consistent first-team football was central to his £21 million transfer to Sunderland.
The 23-year-old winger became Sunderland’s latest marquee signing earlier this week, joining Régis Le Bris’ Premier League squad in a deal believed to be worth around £21 million.
Adingra made 73 appearances for Brighton, scoring 12 goals since signing from FC Nordsjaelland in 2022. He spent the 2022–23 season on loan with Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise before returning to Brighton and becoming a regular under then-manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Following confirmation of the move, Hürzeler commented: “It was a pleasure to work with Simon, and he’s made a valuable impact during his time here. But he’s now at a point in his career where regular playing time is crucial for him. Given the strong competition we have in wide positions, we couldn’t offer him that. This move to Sunderland gives him the platform he’s looking for. We thank him for everything and wish him the best going forward.”
Last season, Adingra made 29 Premier League appearances — starting 12 — and played in all eight of Brighton’s Europa League matches. He was also instrumental in Ivory Coast’s 2024 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, assisting both goals in the 2–1 final win over Nigeria and earning Man of the Match honours. His signing adds to Sunderland’s ambitious summer as the club prepares for its return to the Premier League for the first time since 2016–17.
What has Simon Adingra said about his Sunderland move?
Adingra said conversations with Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris and owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus played a major role in his decision, despite interest from other European clubs.
“I joined because of the project,” he explained. “I spoke to the manager and the owner — they showed me genuine interest, and I wanted to be part of what they’re building here. I’m excited to meet my new teammates and get going. It’s an honour to be here, and I hope we achieve great things together.”
The Ivory Coast international also credited a strong recommendation from Amad Diallo, a fellow national team player and former Sunderland loanee. “Amad spoke really highly of the club and told me how big Sunderland is,” Adingra said.
He added that he brings top-level experience, pace, and attacking threat to the squad: “It’s always been a dream of mine to play in the Premier League, so to continue doing that is amazing. It’s a big challenge with strong competition, but I’m ready. My style is built around speed, dribbling, scoring goals, and creating chances.”
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