Exclusive: Josh Maja reveals the truth behind his Sunderland exit and move to Bordeaux - as shown in Sunderland 'Til I Die

The new instalment of the docu-series began streaming on Netflix today, with Maja’s fine form and subsequent exit taking prominence in the early episodes of season two.

Stewart Donald had his say on the move on the documentary, as he expressed his disappointment at the conduct of the youngster’s agent.

But what did Maja have to say about the move?

Below is an extract from the Echo’s exclusive interview with the young striker from November 2019, where he discussed the circumstances behind the move:

The 20-year-old said: “It was a bit of...it was up and down.

“Basically, I wanted to stay. Given the right contract, I would have stayed.

“But at the time, I don’t think Sunderland were prepared to give me what I wanted so when the opportunity to play in one of Europe’s top five leagues came up, I couldn’t turn that down.

“It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was one which to improve my career and my game I think I had to make.”

Maja’s decision was met with critique from all corners of the Sunderland fanbase.

While many understood the situation, there were quarters who were far more critical - leading the striker to admit he scarcely checked his social media in the months proceeding his exit.

But for Maja himself, the decision was a simple one.

A selfish decision? Perhaps - but the striker doesn’t believe that is a bad thing.

“I have ambitions in my career and in my life and this is just a stepping stone for me.

“I want to keep pushing and fans need to understand what players want for themselves.

“Even though that is a bit selfish, it’s a selfish game, isn’t it?

“For me it was important to make that move and playing at a higher level, it’s a given.”

You can read the full interview with Maja HERE.