Pierre Ekwah, currently on loan at Ligue 1 side Saint-Étienne from Sunderland, has refused to be drawn on what his future might hold after his spell in France, suggesting he could be with his new club for ‘a long time’.
The French midfielder joined Sunderland in January 2023 on a four-and-a-half-year deal from Premier League club West Ham United. However, after making 43 appearances for the Black Cats last season, he was loaned out to Saint-Étienne for the current campaign, with the French club holding a €7m purchase option in the deal.
Positive Impact
So far, Ekwah has made a positive impression at Saint-Étienne, starting ten league games. Despite his loan status, the 22-year-old has insisted that he feels a deep sense of commitment to the French club, stating that in his mind, he is not really on loan.
“I feel a sense of belonging to Saint-Étienne. In my head, I am not on loan,” Ekwah told French daily Le Progrès. “When I arrived, I said to myself: I will be here for a long time.”
While Ekwah’s dedication to his current club is clear, he remains cautious about the future, leaving the door open for a potential return to Sunderland.
“You never know, will I return to Sunderland? Will I stay? I cannot give an answer,” he admitted. “In my mind, the question is already on the table, we will see. Now, we are talking about belonging; I belong to two clubs.”
For now, Ekwah’s focus remains on his performances for Saint-Étienne, who are currently fighting to stay above the relegation zone in Ligue 1. The midfielder’s strong performances could well influence both clubs’ decisions when the loan period concludes, but for now, Ekwah is determined to give his best to the French outfit.
Who Is Pierre Ekwah?
Ekwah began his youth career at RC Arpajonnais, Bretigny FCS, and CFF Paris before joining Nantes and later Chelsea’s academy in 2018. He signed professionally with Chelsea in 2019 and moved to West Ham United in 2021. After limited first-team opportunities, he joined Sunderland in January 2023. A versatile player, capable in midfield and defence, Ekwah has also represented France at U16 and U20 levels, showcasing his technical and physical abilities.
Writer’s View
Pierre Ekwah’s refusal to shut the door on a future with Sunderland shows the complexity of his situation. While he’s clearly enjoying his time in France and feels a strong connection to Saint-Étienne, he remains professional and mindful of the options available to him. Sunderland will no doubt be keeping an eye on his progress, as his performances this season could play a key role in shaping his future with both clubs.
