Simon Adingra opens up on 'difficult' Sunderland stint in first interview after AS Monaco transfer
Simon Adingra left Sunderland earlier this week to sign for AS Monaco
Simon Adingra has spoken out for the first time since sealing a move away from Sunderland on transfer deadline day, admitting that his stint on Wearside was defined by “difficult moments”.
The Ivorian only signed for the Black Cats during the summer window, arriving from Brighton and Hove Albion in a deal worth around £21 million. Over the course of his time at the Stadium of Light, however, he recorded just one goal and one assist across 15 first team outings in all competitions, and it was within this context that he was permitted to join AS Monaco on Monday.
Adingra’s switch to the French top flight is an initial loan deal with an option-to-buy attached, and after taking part in his first training session with his new club on Wednesday, the attacker then spoke to the media about his decision to join Sebastien Pocognoli’s side.
What did Simon Adingra say about his Sunderland transfer and ambitions with Monaco?
Explaining the reasoning behind his switch to Monaco in a press conference, Adingra said: “The club from the Principality spoke to me about their interest, my qualities and the project. I quickly saw AS Monaco’s ambition through the discussions I had with head coach Sebastien Pocognoli.
“The sporting project immediately appealed to me, so the decision came naturally. The style of play and the environment also played a part, as did the fact of playing in a French-speaking country and league – a language I’m comfortable with – which makes my adaptation easier. I’m here to help the team and show what I can do best.”
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Reflecting on his time at the Stadium of Light, Adingra continued: “The season at Sunderland was marked by some more difficult moments. 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.”
On his ambitions with Monaco, he added: “One of the objectives is to have a strong run in the Coupe de France. On a personal level, I want to give my all, help the team and fully commit to the club’s project. Returning to the national team is also one of my ambitions. Getting back to a very high level is important to me, and I’ve spoken with Emerse Fae, the head coach of Cote d’Ivoire, who confirmed that joining AS Monaco, a major club in Ligue 1, was a very good choice.”
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