January player exodus on the horizon
As West Ham approach the January transfer window, concerns are mounting about the potential player exodus and the club’s lack of readiness to cope with it. The African Cup of Nations will see key players like Nayef Aguerd, Maxwel Cornet, Mohammed Kudus, and Said Benrahma unavailable for up to five weeks. This absence will leave significant gaps in the squad, and David Moyes seems ill-equipped to handle the situation.
One major worry is the discontent among players who have not been getting regular playing time. Aaron Cresswell, Danny Ings, Ben Johnson, Pablo Fornals, and Thilo Kehrer may all be seeking transfers in January due to frustration. Moyes has not effectively managed these players, leaving them feeling marginalised and eager to explore opportunities elsewhere.
January player exodus on the horizon? Thilo Kehrer needs more game-time.
Moyes faces a dilemma with Maxwel Cornet, who has struggled to make an impact since his £17 million move from Burnley. With Cornet set to represent Ivory Coast in the African Cup of Nations, West Ham will be unable to offload him in January. This situation could result in a significant financial loss for the club, as potential buyers would be hesitant to sign a player unavailable until mid-February.
Understudies unprepared
The lack of promotion for under-21 players exacerbates West Ham’s problems. Moyes has not adequately prepared the younger talents to step up in the absence of key first-team players. This neglect could leave the squad short of options and force Moyes to over-rely on a few players, risking fatigue and injuries.
The upcoming African Cup of Nations poses a logistical challenge, with players requiring time for a pre-tournament camp and a potential five-week absence. Moyes must navigate this period with a limited squad, making it imperative to have suitable replacements ready.
West Ham will pay the price one way or another for Moyes unwillingness or inability to be more inclusive to fringe and youth players. There is no inclusivity, no pathway. Moyes shuts everyone else out of his core group, as if he can’t cope with the wider group. That means others leave as they feel ‘outside’, so we either sell at enormous losses – Moyes speciality, and/or we lose young talent. Even Southgate played young Palmer last night, but Moyes leaves them at arm’s length, Mubama, Marshall et al.