Simon Adingra is already feeling the heartbeat of Wearside

Just two months into his Sunderland journey, Simon Adingra is already feeling the heartbeat of Wearside — and it’s unlike anything he’s experienced before. The Ivorian winger, who arrived from Brighton during the summer transfer window, has quickly become a key figure in Régis Le Bris’ promising Premier League campaign. But it’s not just the football that’s left an impression — it’s the fans, the culture, and the sense of purpose that defines Sunderland.

🔴 A Connection That Runs Deep

Adingra has played in Norway, Belgium, and the Premier League, but he says Sunderland is a different beast entirely. From the moment he stepped onto the pitch at the Stadium of Light, he felt the energy.

“It’s a bit different in terms of the fans compared to where I come from. They are very loud when we are on the pitch and they push the team a lot,” Adingra said. “I receive messages from fans on social media and I see how passionate they are around the club.”

That passion, he says, comes with a clear message: give everything. And Adingra is more than willing to meet that demand.

🏟️ First Impressions at the Stadium of Light

Reflecting on his debut against West Ham, Adingra recalled the moment that made it all click.

“I remember the tifo. You could see from there that this is Sunderland,” he said. “It was crazy… amazing to be there and see that. I think they also played a part in the win.”

The winger has already helped the Black Cats to two wins from their opening three matches, including a gritty victory over Brentford. His pace, directness, and work ethic have made him a fan favorite — and he’s only just getting started.

🇨🇮 Wisdom from Amad

Before making the move, Adingra sought advice from fellow Ivorian Amad Diallo, who dazzled during his loan spell at Sunderland in 2022–23. Now at Manchester United, Amad remains in close contact with Adingra and offered heartfelt guidance.

“He spoke to me about how big the Club is, how passionate the fans are,” Adingra shared. “He told me, ‘If you give everything, then the fans will give everything back to you.’ He told me enjoy it.”

🔮 Belief in the Project

Sunderland’s return to the Premier League comes with the usual challenges — newly promoted sides often struggle to stay up. But Adingra believes this season will be different.

“Because this is Sunderland. That’s why it’s different,” he said. “We have a good squad… really good teammates. When I look at the quality of the players and the project of the Club, we see the aim of wanting to be in the Premier League.”

“We are not coming here to go straight back down. We want to be stable in the Premier League.”

⚔️ Eyes on Crystal Palace

Next up for Sunderland is a clash with FA Cup holders Crystal Palace — a test of their early-season momentum and Premier League credentials. With Adingra in form and the squad gelling quickly, the Black Cats are quietly building belief.

And if Adingra’s words are anything to go by, Sunderland aren’t just here to survive — they’re here to belong.