BREAKING CHAINS: ADINGRA BLAMES SUNDERLAND’S STORMS, SEEKS SUN IN MONACO

Simon Adingra has officially ended his short-lived Sunderland spell after completing a deadline-day move to AS Monaco, closing the chapter on a challenging period in English football and opening a new one in Ligue 1. The Ivory Coast international departed the Stadium of Light earlier this week, and has now spoken at length about his reasons for leaving, his struggles on Wearside, and his ambitions with his new club.

The 22-year-old winger only arrived at Sunderland during the summer transfer window, joining from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal reported to be worth around £21 million. His signing was seen as a major statement of intent, but despite early promise, Adingra found it difficult to establish himself as a consistent presence in the first team. Over the course of 15 appearances across all competitions, he recorded just one goal and one assist, with limited minutes making it hard to find rhythm or confidence. Within that context, Sunderland ultimately sanctioned his exit before the window closed, allowing him to pursue a move elsewhere.

Adingra has now secured a fresh opportunity in France, joining AS Monaco on an initial loan deal that includes an option to buy. After taking part in his first training sessions with the Principality club on Wednesday, the winger addressed the media and offered candid reflections on his Sunderland experience, admitting it had been marked by frustration and difficult moments.

“The season at Sunderland was marked by some more difficult moments,” Adingra said. “Today, I want to focus on the present and move forward with the Red and Whites. I feel very good, both physically and mentally, and confident about what lies ahead. Enjoyment is essential for a player with my skill set, and that comes through playing time. I’ve played less recently, so I’m here to regain confidence, rhythm and that sense of being.”

The Ivorian also explained that AS Monaco’s clear sporting vision and ambition played a decisive role in his decision to leave England. He revealed that discussions with the club, and in particular with head coach Sebastien Pocognoli, quickly convinced him that the move was the right step for his career.

“The club spoke to me about their interest, my qualities and the project,” he explained. “Through my discussions with the coach, I immediately felt AS Monaco’s ambition. The sporting project appealed to me straight away, so the decision came naturally.”

Adingra added that Monaco’s style of play and overall environment were key factors, as was the familiarity of returning to a French-speaking league something he believes will help him settle quickly and perform at his best.

“The style of play, the environment and the fact that it’s a French-speaking country all played a part,” he said. “It makes adaptation much easier for me. I’m here to help the team and show what I can do best.”

Looking ahead, Adingra outlined clear collective and personal targets for his time in the Principality. One of Monaco’s priorities this season, he revealed, is to make a strong push in domestic cup competition, while he is determined to fully commit himself to the club’s long-term project.

“One of the objectives is to have a strong run in the Coupe de France,” he said. “On a personal level, I want to give my all, help the team and fully commit to the club’s project.”

International ambitions have also influenced his move, with Adingra eager to return to the Côte d’Ivoire national team after falling out of contention. He confirmed that discussions with national team head coach Emerse Faé reassured him that joining Monaco was the right platform to rediscover his best form.

“Returning to the national team is one of my ambitions,” Adingra added. “Getting back to a very high level is important to me, and I’ve spoken with Emerse Faé, who confirmed that joining AS Monaco, a major club in Ligue 1, was a very good choice.”

Now settled into life in the Principality, Adingra is determined to put his Sunderland struggles behind him, rebuild confidence through regular football and re-establish himself both at club and international level. His move to Monaco represents not just a change of scenery, but a chance for a full reset as he looks to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most exciting wide attackers in Europe.