Leave a comment

Sarri identifies signing to mend Hammers midfield

Maurizio Sarri is poised to restart his managerial career in the Premier League, and he might bring two Lazio stars with him. The former Chelsea manager believes he can resolve West Ham’s midfield issues by recruiting a former Arsenal player, Matteo Guendouzi, to East London. It remains uncertain what Hammers director of football Tim Steidten would think of such a move, however theses are only rumours at this stage.

Italian media reports suggest that Sarri regrets his departure from Chelsea and is eager to return to Premier League coaching after this season concludes.

Recently turning down an offer from Nottingham Forest, Sarri has received proposals from both Newcastle United and West Ham through his agent, Frank Trimboli, but he has not yet made a decision.

Sarri believes Matteo Guendouzi would fix West Ham’s midfield problems

Sarri is holding out for more concrete offers from Premier League clubs, hoping to secure around €50 million in backing to attract Lazio players Alessio Romagnoli and Matteo Guendouzi to whichever team he manages next. Both players have been staunch supporters of Sarri during his tenure at Lazio and might be persuaded to join him.

The 65-year-old is currently spending time with his family in Castelfranco but is ready to return to the coaching fray soon.

Leave a comment

Moyes walking wounded list

David Moyes has updated on the condition of his walking wounded following West Ham United’s UEFA Europa League quarter-final second leg against Bayer Leverkusen and ahead of their upcoming Premier League game at Crystal Palace.

Winger Jarrod Bowen, who played the entire 90 minutes in West Ham’s 1-1 draw against Bundesliga champions Leverkusen — a result that led to a 3-1 aggregate loss — and assisted Michail Antonio’s early goal, will be closely monitored before the game at Selhurst Park. His participation was uncertain until the last moment, Moyes revealed, and Bowen’s condition will be assessed again following the tough fixture.

Defender Nayef Aguerd had to leave the field just before halftime during the Leverkusen match and, along with recently side-lined players Konstantinos Mavropanos, Alphonse Areola, and Kalvin Phillips, will undergo medical evaluations at Rush Green.

Moyes tells fans West Ham have some injury problems

Last man standing as Moyes inspects his wounded and fatigued squad

“Jarrod was nearly side-lined last night; he even required an injection to play,” Moyes stated. “We’ll need to evaluate his reaction to that treatment. It was crucial having him available.”

“Nayef twisted his ankle, and we haven’t fully assessed him yet. Both he and Dinos will be checked, and we’ll have more information before the weekend,” he added.

Moyes also shared good news about young midfielder George Earthy, who has recovered from a head injury sustained against Fulham last weekend, though he is still not cleared for play.

Additionally, Emerson and Lucas Paquetá are expected to be back in the squad against Palace after missing the last game due to suspensions.

“George is doing well; he’s been around the training ground and is looking good, but we are sticking to the required protocols,” Moyes said. “Having the two boys back from suspension is also a boost.”

1 Comment

Kudus to Liverpool would be a disaster

Yesterday, Spanish media ignited rumours about West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus potentially moving to Liverpool, which quickly spread across various news outlets. Within 24 hours, the narrative of “Kudus to Liverpool” had gained significant traction.

Selling our star winger to Liverpool would be a disastrous decision for West Ham. Yet, there’s no denying Kudus’s talent will have attracted admirers. Reports from Fichajes suggest that Liverpool is eyeing Kudus as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, who might be considering a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. With the Reds possibly preparing for Salah’s departure, they see the Ghanaian international as a fitting successor.

Kudus-Liverpool-transfer-West Ham

West Ham must keep Kudus

Since the start of the year, much of the media focus around Liverpool has revolved around finding a successor for manager Jurgen Klopp, with Ruben Amorim emerging as a likely candidate. However, the discourse is shifting towards Salah’s future as Saudi Pro League clubs, particularly Al Ittihad, have expressed interest, with a significant offer potentially on the table post-season.

Liverpool’s search for a replacement has included numerous names, now adding Kudus to the list. West Ham, who secured Kudus for £38 million last summer, has been pleased with his performance, as he has contributed to 22 goals in all competitions this season. It’s typical that just when we appear to have moved on from Jarrod Bowen being linked to Liverpool that a new rumour begins.

4 Comments

Cautious Moyes can’t change his nature

Cautious Moyes let Alonso off the ropes 

Last night at the London Stadium, as West Ham retreated into a defensive low block system while 1-0 ahead and needing another goal, an old fable popped into my head.

The story of the Frog and the Scorpion may not be the first that springs to mind when discussing football; however, last night it felt apt. If you are unaware of the tale, it goes something like this:

A scorpion asks a frog to carry it across a river. The frog hesitates, afraid of being stung, but the scorpion argues that if it did so, they would both drown. Considering this, the frog agrees. But midway across the river, the scorpion does indeed sting the frog, dooming them both.

Moyes had glory within his grasp but reverted to type

With his dying breath, the frog asks the scorpion why he effectively killed them both. The scorpion replied, “I can’t help it, it’s in my nature.”

And that really sums up David Moyes for me; it’s in his nature to be cautious. Despite the evidence of the first half against Leverkusen, with Xabi Alonso’s team on the ropes, he pulled Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus into defensive positions, and the game was lost.

It was the same when West Ham were ahead against Aston Villa and at Newcastle. Moyes’ teams get into a lead, sit back, then the inevitable happens, and it’s so avoidable yet frustrating.

David Moyes isn’t going to change, though… it’s in his nature.

2 Comments

Former Chelsea boss – No, not him! For Irons job?

West Ham United‘s managerial search could take an interesting turn with Maurizio Sarri reportedly being considered as a replacement for David Moyes.

With Moyes’ contract expiring at the end of the season, West Ham are preparing for potential changes in the dugout.

According to Il Messaggero, Sarri, a former Chelsea manager, is eager to return to England after a regretful experience at his previous club. His new agent is reportedly proposing a move to West Ham.

While Moyes has achieved European success (Conference League win) and decent Premier League results, a section of the fanbase has criticised his pragmatic style. Sarri’s reputation for attacking, possession-based football could be a breath of fresh air for these fans.

Known for his preferred 4-3-3 formation and emphasis on ball-playing defenders and wingers, Sarri’s system prioritises high pressing and exploiting space left by disorganised defenses. This approach aligns with the desire for a more exciting brand of football.

After his challenging stint at Chelsea, Sarri might view West Ham as an opportunity for redemption. His managerial style could potentially resonate with fans yearning for a more progressive approach.

Sarri’s potential arrival at West Ham presents an intriguing possibility. His attacking philosophy could be a welcome change for some fans, but his suitability for the current squad and the club’s overall vision remain open questions.

7 Comments

Moyes at the Crossroads

David Moyes’ impending contract expiration at West Ham has ignited a fierce debate amongst fans. While some celebrate his European heroics and renewed stability, others yearn for a more progressive style of play.

 

There’s no denying Moyes‘ impact. He steered West Ham to three consecutive European qualifications, a feat that solidified the club’s position in the Premier League landscape. However, his brand of football, often labeled “pragmatic” or even “anti-football,” has left a bitter taste in the mouths of some fans.

West Ham boasts a passionate fanbase known for their unwavering loyalty. They deserve more than just calculated victories and cautious tactics. They crave a brand of football that reflects their own attacking spirit, a style that entertains as much as it earns points.

Moyes has demonstrably improved the club’s results, but questions linger about his ability to take them to the next level. Have they reached the ceiling under his leadership? Is there a risk of stagnation if he remains?

The upcoming transfer window presents a significant opportunity. West Ham needs a squad overhaul, and the incoming players should ideally fit a more attacking philosophy. This strategic shift necessitates a manager who shares that vision and can inspire the team to play with greater attacking verve.

The decision to extend Moyes’ contract is a complex one. His achievements demand respect, but the desire for progress cannot be ignored. Perhaps the time has come for a new manager to usher in a fresh era of attacking football at West Ham, one that honours the club’s identity and excites the passionate fanbase they are so lucky to have.

Leave a comment

West Ham Eye Free Transfer

West Ham United are reportedly targeting a free transfer for Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi this summer.

West Ham are anticipating a significant squad overhaul in the upcoming transfer window, regardless of David Moyes’ managerial future. Central midfield is a priority area for reinforcement.

With the disappointing loan spell of Kalvin Phillips, West Ham is seeking a proven, dynamic central midfielder. Ndidi’s hard-tackling style and energy appear to fit the bill.

The 27-year-old Nigerian international is in the final months of his contract with Leicester City, making him a free transfer target for West Ham.

While the potential free transfer is attractive, West Ham faces competition from Everton, Crystal Palace, and several European clubs for Ndidi’s signature.

Ndidi presents an intriguing option for West Ham. His experience, playing style, and availability on a free transfer make him a valuable target, but they will need to act fast to secure him amidst competition from other clubs.

2 Comments

Moyes Draws Criticism From German Media

West Ham United‘s Europa League journey came to an end after a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful effort against Bayer Leverkusen. Despite Michail Antonio’s early goal, the Hammers fell short, losing 3-1 on aggregate.

The match was not without its drama. An altercation between Antonio and Leverkusen‘s Jonathan Tah led to a red card for each team’s coaching staff. Following the match, comments made by West Ham manager David Moyes towards Xabi Alonso’s coaching staff drew criticism from German publication BILD.

BILD’s headline, “A good loser looks different…” suggests they felt Moyes’ post-match behavior fell short of expected sportsmanship.

Despite the defeat, West Ham fans’ opinions were mixed. While some admired Moyes’ display of passion in the press conference, others felt the frustration stemmed from questionable refereeing decisions throughout the tie. TalkSPORT pundit Alan Pardew echoed this sentiment, suggesting the Hammers were “harshly treated” by the referee.

West Ham’s European run may be over, but the controversy surrounding the officiating and Moyes’ comments linger. The focus must now shift to the Premier League and the team’s remaining fixtures.

Leave a comment

West Ham’s European Dream Faces Reality Check

West Ham United’s hopes of qualifying for European football for a remarkable fourth season in a row are facing a stern test. Currently positioned eighth in the Premier League table, the Hammers will likely need to climb at least one place to secure a coveted Europa Conference League spot.

West Ham's European Journey

West Ham have it all to do to qualify for four in a row

 

The challenge, however, appears daunting. West Ham has already played more matches than most of the teams vying for that coveted seventh position, and even that is not certain for a European jaunt  . To compound their difficulties, their remaining five fixtures include brutal clashes against the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester City.

While mathematically still possible, West Ham’s European dream hinges on a combination of factors. They’ll need their rivals to stumble while simultaneously pulling off some upsets against the Premier League’s elite. Manager David Moyes will be tasked with motivating his squad to navigate this challenging run-in and potentially defy the odds.

Only time will tell if West Ham can overcome these obstacles and extend their European adventure into a fourth season. Fans will be watching with bated breath as the season draws to a close.

 

Leave a comment

West Ham Eye Up Young Striker

West Ham United are reportedly considering a move for Atletico Madrid striker Samu Omorodion to bolster their attacking options.

Since the departure of Gianluca Scamacca last summer, West Ham have been searching for a new striker to complement Michail Antonio and Danny Ings.

The 19-year-old Spaniard stands at an imposing 6’4″, suggesting he has the physical attributes to succeed in the Premier League. He’s seen as a potential long-term replacement for the aging Antonio, who might leave the club this summer.

While Antonio has been West Ham’s main striker this season, his age (34) suggests the club might be looking towards the future. Omorodion’s potential and physical stature make him a viable target.

While not a household name like previously linked targets , for example Callum Wilson of Newcastle, Omorodion’s natural physicality and goal-scoring ability could be a valuable asset for West Ham.

Although Omorodion’s lack of experience at the highest level could be a risk.

He certainly represents an interesting option for West Ham. His youth, potential, and physical profile make him a potential long-term solution, but his lack of experience might necessitate a period of adaptation to the Premier League.