West Ham United kicks off their post-David Moyes era with the transfer of Max Kilman, a sign of Julen Lopetegui’s vision for the club.
The £40 million acquisition of Kilman from Wolves addresses some of West Ham’s defensive woes but not many expect his defensive partner to be Kurt Zouma. Former Irons player and coach Stuart Pearce approves of the signing, highlighting Kilman’s ball-playing ability and the fairness of the transfer fee.
However, Pearce also believes that Kilman’s arrival might signal the end of Kurt Zouma’s time at West Ham. Sources suggest Zouma could be on his way out, with West Ham also pursuing Jean-Clair Todibo of Nice amongst others.
There does seem to be a high degree of expectancy that Zouma will depart the London Stadium this season. But he has one year remaining on his contract and the sort of wage which many clubs will struggle to match. Factor in his lack of mobility and obvious issues with his knees and it may well be that he Hammers captain stays put.
Kilman will face significant pressure to perform under Lopetegui’s system and deliver on the fans’ expectations for improved results and playing style. His comfort on the ball and familiarity with Lopetegui’s tactics should ease his transition.
With Angelo Ogbonna’s departure and uncertainties surrounding Zouma and Nayef Aguerd, West Ham’s backline is undergoing a significant transformation. Who will partner Kilman in central defence remains to be seen.
Do we know WHY Aguerd is interested in leaving? Is there a chance that a new coach means a new enthusiasm to stay with us? Is part of the problem that both Aguerd and Kilman are left-sided CBs? Can we see Kilman partnered with Mavro?
“Kilman will face significant pressure to perform under Lopetegui’s system”
How will Kilman struggle? he already knows how J-Lo’ system works, I know it was only for 6 months or so but Kilman will probably help J-Lo implement his vision to the other players.
COYI
Simon, do you deliberately spout this bland and banal rubbish in the hope it irritates people and gets you comments. I’m pretty sure you have very limited football knowledge, however you seem to have extensive experience of the “Control C” and “Control V” keys on your keyboard. Maybe just give your lack lustre speculation and limited writing ability a rest for a while!
Zip it, give the guy a break.
Why should I give him a break? His relentless articles are void of any real substance and are blatant copy and paste articles. This followed by his lack of proof reading or research before posting makes C&H look like its turned into a gossip and click bait website.
Give it a rest mate. Go get your info somewhere else if it worries you that much.
when we bought Aguerd i remember reading that he could also post at LB, certainly in a 3, but if he can why would he not be an option for that spot? he’s got a great long-ball pass, maybe not a great crosser. he’s incredibly quick too. i still think he could be of good service to us and should be able to play in the new style. someone does have to teach him a bit of mongrel, though
I think that’s a great shout, Rollercoaster. Do we know what J-Lo’s likely formation options are?
I will be amazed if we find someone to take Zouma off our hands without a medical. Kilman is left footed, so he will displace Aguerd. If we don’t sign another CB it will be Mav who displaces Zouma IMHO. Paying up Zoumas contract makes no sense so I expect him to be on the bench next season rather than having to replace him. If we sign another CB it will be to replace Aguerd if he does go.