West Ham’s new signing, Maximilian Kilman, boasts a remarkable journey that has taken him from the fringes of English football to the top flight. Here’s a closer look at his impressive career:
1. Non-League Roots:
Kilman’s path began in the sixth tier of English football. After academy stints at Fulham and Gillingham, he made his senior debut with Welling United before truly blossoming at Maidenhead United in the National League.
2. Futsal National Team Player:
While pursuing his eleven-a-side career, Kilman surprisingly represented England in futsal, the indoor version of the game. He even captained his national futsal team, showcasing his talent in both formats.
3. A Historic Leap to the Premier League:
In a rare feat, Kilman went straight from the National League to the Premier League when Wolverhampton Wanderers signed him in 2018. He made his debut later that season, becoming the first player since Chris Smalling to achieve this feat without loan spells.
4. Early European Success:
Kilman’s first start for Wolves came in the Europa League, showcasing his European pedigree early on. He played a key role in their run to the quarter-finals during the 2019/20 season.
5. Premier League Regular and Centurion:
Kilman established himself as a dependable starter in the Premier League for Wolves in the 2021/22 season. He reached a century of appearances in the top flight last year and boasts over 120 Premier League games overall.
6. Premier League Iron Man:
Kilman’s reliability is exceptional. He’s missed only one Premier League game in the past two seasons and remarkably played every single minute of the league campaign in 2023/24 – one of only two outfield players to achieve this feat.
7. Leadership Qualities:
Kilman brings leadership experience to West Ham, having captained Wolverhampton Wanderers in the 2023/24 season. Notably, he will reunite with his former manager Julen Lopetegui, who handed him the captain’s armband at Wolves.
8. England Aspirations:
Despite his futsal experience for England, Kilman dreams of representing the Three Lions in full senior international football. His consistent performances in the Premier League suggest he’s pushing hard to achieve this ambition.
Kilman’s story is one of dedication and perseverance. West Ham fans can be excited about a player who has risen through the ranks and established himself as a reliable leader and top-flight performer.