Sunderland’s deadline-day signing of Nilson Angulo has sparked a wave of pride in Ecuador, with national media hailing his arrival in the Premier League as a moment that once “seemed impossible” and interpreting his squad number as a powerful statement of intent.
The 22-year-old completed a permanent move from Anderlecht to the Stadium of Light before the window closed, becoming one of the Black Cats’ most significant additions of the season.
Sunderland land Angulo in €17m deal
Belgian media reported that Anderlecht received €17.3m plus add-ons for Angulo, who had been one of the standout performers in the Jupiler Pro League this season. The winger scored seven goals and registered eight assists across 30 appearances, earning a reputation as one of the division’s most dynamic attacking players.
Angulo’s decision to move in January has divided opinion. Former Manchester City striker Felipe Caicedo suggested the Ecuador international could have secured a move to a bigger Premier League club had he waited until the summer.
However, the reaction in Ecuador has been overwhelmingly positive.
‘It seemed impossible decades ago’
Ecuadorian newspaper Diario Extra devoted significant coverage to Angulo’s move, framing it as a moment of national significance rather than a simple transfer.
The outlet highlighted images circulating on social media showing Angulo holding a Sunderland shirt bearing the number 10, a detail that has resonated deeply back home.
“The idea of an Ecuadorian player wearing the No.10 shirt for a team in the world’s most competitive league seemed impossible decades ago,” — Diario Extra
The paper described the number as a symbol of belief, not only in Angulo’s talent but in his responsibility within the team.
No.10 seen as sign of trust
Diario Extra added that the shirt number represents a “sign of confidence” from head coach Régis Le Bris, Sunderland as a club, and the supporters who have embraced the signing.
That view was echoed by Diario Expreso, which told its readers that Sunderland’s decision to entrust Angulo with such a prestigious number shows complete faith in his ability to influence games at Premier League level.
While Sunderland have yet to formally confirm his squad number, the symbolism has already taken hold in Ecuador.
Debut could come against Arsenal
Angulo has travelled with Sunderland for Saturday’s trip to the Emirates Stadium, where they face Arsenal. Le Bris has confirmed that the winger is in contention to make his debut, adding further anticipation around his first appearance in English football.
Whether or not he features, Angulo’s arrival has already made an impact far beyond Wearside.
Key Insights
- Sunderland signed Nilson Angulo from Anderlecht on deadline day
- Deal worth €17.3m plus bonuses
- Ecuadorian media have hailed the move as historic
- The No.10 shirt is seen as a major sign of trust
- Angulo could make his debut against Arsenal
What’s Next
Sunderland will decide whether to hand Angulo his first minutes in Saturday’s clash with Arsenal, as Le Bris weighs how quickly to integrate his new signing. Back in Ecuador, expectations are already high, with supporters watching closely to see how their latest Premier League representative adapts.
Is Angulo ready to justify the faith shown by Sunderland and the weight of the No.10 shirt, or will patience be key in his Premier League transition?
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