AliousSimon Adingra faces a crucial decision regarding his future as he contemplates a potential move from Brighton & Hove Albion to MLS side Seattle Sounders. While the switch might seem like a promising opportunity, former Ivory Coast internationals Aruna Dindane and Didier Zokora have expressed contrasting views on whether it would be the right step for the young winger.
Adingra has struggled for consistent game time at Brighton this season, playing just 27% of the available Premier League minutes. Despite making 17 league appearances, he has only started six matches, often finding himself behind Kaoru Mitoma and Yankuba Minteh in the pecking order. This limited role has fueled speculation about a potential transfer, with the latest reports linking the 23-year-old to Seattle Sounders in Major League Soccer.
The proposed move has raised eyebrows, particularly given Adingra’s initial promise when Brighton signed him for €8 million in 2022. He was once seen as one of the club’s most exciting prospects, making the MLS link unexpected for many observers. However, Zokora sees the transfer as a potentially strategic move that could benefit Adingra’s long-term career.
“Simon Adingra has already shown he has the ability to succeed in the Premier League,” Zokora explained in an interview with *Africa Foot*. “A move to the United States is a strategic decision that may seem surprising, especially given the strength of English football. But it all depends on what he wants.
“He could be looking for more minutes and a different environment to develop his game. MLS is attracting younger talent and providing them with significant exposure. Look at Thiago Almada—he made a name for himself at Atlanta United before securing a return to Europe. If Simon chooses this path, it shouldn’t be seen as a step backward, but he must ensure it’s a stepping stone rather than a final destination.”
Dindane, on the other hand, strongly disagrees, arguing that Adingra has the talent to aim higher—perhaps even securing a move to a Champions League club.
“This boy has immense potential,” Dindane countered. “He is already at a strong club in England, and we saw during the Africa Cup of Nations that he can compete with the best.
“Playing in the Premier League is a huge platform—every match is a chance to showcase his ability. If he stays at Brighton for a full season and plays regularly, he could attract attention from Champions League clubs. While MLS is a growing league, he needs to carefully consider how such a move could impact his career trajectory.”
Ultimately, Adingra must weigh his options carefully. While MLS could offer him more playing time and exposure, staying in the Premier League—or even pushing for a move to a higher-profile European club—might better serve his long-term ambitions.
Alious
