In an Instagram post, Ivory Coast international Simon Adingra has said goodbye to Brighton & Hove Albion, expressing gratitude for his time at the club as he embarks on a new journey with newly-promoted Sunderland. The 23-year-old winger, who sealed a £21 million transfer to the Black Cats, shared a touching message that resonated with fans of both clubs:
"Thank you @officialbhafc for the memories, the lessons, and the growth. It’s time for a new chapter, but this place will always have a part of my heart."
Adingra’s move to Sunderland marks the end of a significant chapter in his career with Brighton, where he made 73 appearances, scored 12 goals, and provided five assists since joining from FC Nordsjælland in 2022. The transfer, which includes a £18.5 million base fee plus up to £2.5 million in add-ons, represents a substantial profit for Brighton, who originally signed the young winger for £6 million.
A Journey of Growth at Brighton
Adingra’s time at Brighton was marked by both highs and challenges. After signing in the summer of 2022, he spent the 2022-23 season on loan at Brighton’s sister club, Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium, where he shone with 15 goals and 14 assists. His impressive form in the Jupiler League set high expectations for his return to the Amex Stadium, where he made his Premier League debut in August 2023, scoring in a 4-1 win over Luton Town.
The 2023-24 season saw Adingra become a regular under then-manager Roberto De Zerbi, featuring in 40 matches, including all eight of Brighton’s Europa League games. His standout moment came in a historic 2-0 victory over Ajax in the Europa League, where he played a pivotal role alongside Ansu Fati. However, the 2024-25 campaign proved tougher, with Adingra struggling for consistent starts under new head coach Fabian Hurzeler. Limited to 12 starts in 29 Premier League appearances, he faced stiff competition from wingers like Kaoru Mitoma and Yankuba Minteh, which ultimately paved the way for his departure.
A New Chapter at Sunderland
Sunderland’s acquisition of Adingra is a statement of intent as they prepare for their first Premier League season since 2016-17. The winger becomes the club’s sixth summer signing, joining the likes of Enzo Le Fée, Habib Diarra, and Chemsdine Talbi in a squad overhaul backed by owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and sporting director Kristjaan Speakman. The Black Cats, who secured promotion via the Championship play-off final, see Adingra as a key addition to bolster their attacking options.