Ivory Coast international Simon Adingra will spend the 2026-27 season with Dutch giants Ajax after completing a season-long loan move from Sunderland.
The 24-year-old winger has agreed to remain at Ajax for the entire Eredivisie campaign as he looks to make an impact at one of the Netherlands’ most successful clubs.
Adingra joined Sunderland from Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer of 2025 but his first season at the club was interrupted by a loan move to AS Monaco.
He made 15 appearances in all competitions during the first half of last season and scored once before moving to Monaco for the remainder of the campaign.
Ajax technical director Jordi Cruyff said the club had identified Adingra’s pace and versatility as key qualities that could strengthen their attack.
“Simon brings pace, depth and a strong mentality. That is exactly the profile we were looking for,” technical director Jordi Cruyff said.
“He possesses qualities that can immediately make our play more threatening. We are therefore delighted that he has chosen Ajax and that he has confidence in the plan we have for him.”
Adingra is expected to provide Ajax with another attacking option as the club prepare for the new Eredivisie season.
The Ivory Coast player began his development at Ghana’s Right to Dream Academy before moving to Europe, where he established himself through spells in Denmark and Belgium.
He previously played for FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium.
His time with Union Saint-Gilloise was particularly productive. During the 2022-23 season, Adingra contributed 20 goals in 36 league appearances, underlining his ability to influence matches from an attacking position.
The move to Ajax represents another step in a career that has already taken him through several European leagues.
Adingra said he was attracted to Ajax because of the club’s playing philosophy and believes its approach will suit his own strengths.
“Ajax is a good environment, and the style of play fits me well – playing 1-on-1 and together with teammates in possession. I think Ajax is a perfect team for me,” he said in his first club interview.
He also highlighted the reputation and history of the Dutch club, which has produced and featured numerous prominent players over the years.
“Everyone knows Ajax, it’s a big club with a lot of history. A lot of legends played here.”
Adingra’s arrival gives Ajax a player with experience in several European competitions and different footballing environments.
For the winger, the loan provides an opportunity to establish himself at a club whose possession-based style he believes matches his strengths.
For Ajax, Cruyff believes the player’s pace and ability to make an immediate attacking impact can add another dimension to their play during the 2026-27 campaign.
Adingra will now turn his attention to adapting to life in the Netherlands and contributing to Ajax’s efforts throughout the Eredivisie season.
