Simon Adingra ~ Player Scouting Report

/ Player Analysis

A deep dive on Simon Adingra’s profile + how he’s been one of the most exciting African talents on the centre stage in recent times

Having made a move from the famous Right to Dream academy, Adingra has been making remarkable progress in quick time. He played an integral role at Brighton last season whilst also being a national wonderkid for Ivory Coast at the AFCON which they won gloriously

Scoring 7 times and having 3 assists for the Seagulls under De Zerbi, Adingra continued to take his fine form into the AFCON where his performances proved clinical, winning the accolades of the Young Player of AFCON.

Simon Adingra is an explosive direct winger that likes keeping things tidy whilst also indulging into some skilful work in order to effectively bypass defences. Often known for his speedy pace and fancy footwork when it comes to dribbling.

Flaunts his smooth ball manipulation which lets him navigate through tight spaces and deliver dangerous crosses into the box. A wide creator that is versatile to tuck into either wing whilst also using either of his feet. Brings flexibility and unpredictability into the systems he’s being deployed in.

Firstly, let’s look at his player profile:
Age: 22
Club: Brighton
Position: RW/LW
Foot: Right/Left
Nationality: Ivorian
Value: €31M
Height: 5’8
Avg SofaScore rating: 7.07

Strengths: Dribbling, Crossing, Speed, Short Passing, Pressing
Weaknesses: Physicality, Shot Volume

Role at Brighton/Ivory Coast:

Adingra has played a key part in the national team’s success lately, vividly reminiscent from his goal contributions. Often tucks in as a creative LW that hugs the touchline and creates chances through his dribbling + burst of pace + double footed crossing ability

At Brighton he gives them the tactical flexibility to feature on both wings, primarily RW. Adingra makes his presence felt by – making late runs into the box + holding width and carrying the ball+ showcasing his vision and ability to play the final ball. He’s also very handy in his defensive side

Playstyle – In Possession:

Adingra’s prime asset is his creative dribbling. Very often thrives in 1v1s, especially by mixing the flair + pace in order to send defenders for a hotdog. Proper trickster that wants to challenge defenders every time he gets onto the ball.

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Optimistic in creating chances for himself/others. Quick bursts of pace + frequent stop/start movements but the directness is what catches people a stray. Whilst completing the move, his final ball conviction in finding the right pass is quite high too.

Speaking of his creativity, his end product has certainly topped up recently. Crosses into the box + carries in the final third in order to play cutbacks and aid his overall game with assists. Varies his game by cutting both on the inside/outside utilising both feet in creating chances

Effective in small spaces + isolated moments whilst also posing an equal threat from strides he makes in longer patches > averaging 4.49 progressive carries per90 with 10.99 progressive passes per90 has been indicative of his quick progress.

What makes me call Adingra a tricky winger is his agile body. Aids him in simplifying moves for himself and shift his hips in unnatural positions. The ‘agileness’ lets him maintain the low centre of gravity and make sharp turns without losing the balance.

Playstyle – Out of Possession:

Adingra’s defensive contributions are decent – tracks back to support his full back whilst also having good pressing routines. The intensity and athleticism supports his playing style. Can shift his body quick and use his pace tidily too

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Most of his defensive plays are more so in the attacking third which is what makes him a good ball winner – advantage due to his small frame. Averaged 4.76 recoveries (57th percentile) + 0.77 interceptions per90 (84th percentile) last season

Doesn’t shy away from engaging against fullbacks in 1v1 situations typically – pressurises, slows down opposition attacks massively and can also dispossess opponents. Might not always show the same desire to do so much it’s certainly present.

Although it’s easy to brush past him due to his not so imposing + attacking mindedness- he’s someone you can base your counter attack on with because he’s always ready for transitions. Win the ball > recycle it to him and he’ll do the job

Areas to Improve:

Although Adingra has great technique which looks very promising, it goes under-utilised at Brighton. Shot volume needs more conviction that’ll easily benefit his end product and overall contributions. Building himself physically would help too

Conclusion:

The surge of success in Adingra’s talent is deservedly so very motivating, only doing justice to the alumni’s of the Right To Dream academy – now ready for a big move. Don’t be surprised to see him do superbly well when depended upon

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