West Ham United‘s recent acquisition of 18-year-old Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme has garnered attention from South American football expert Tim Vickery. In a YouTube interview with West Ham Network, Vickery, a respected voice on Brazilian football for over 15 years, dissected Guilherme’s strengths and how he might integrate into Julen Lopetegui’s system.
Vickery acknowledges Guilherme’s age, highlighting the inherent gamble on potential in such young players. He compares the transfer to Vinicius Junior’s move to Real Madrid, emphasising the current trend of European clubs snapping up young South American talent.
Describes Guilherme as physically imposing, possessing electric pace, and wielding a powerful left foot. While primarily deployed as a right-winger at Palmeiras, Vickery believes his skillset is better suited for a central attacking role, allowing him to cut inside and unleash his shot power.
Vickery explains that Guilherme might have been eclipsed by other talented youngsters at Palmeiras, but his own potential remains significant.
He stresses that Guilherme shouldn’t be expected to make an immediate starting-lineup impact. He requires development under Lopetegui’s guidance.
Despite his 40 senior appearances and U20 international caps, Guilherme is still viewed as a long-term investment for West Ham.
Vickery’s analysis suggests West Ham fans have more than good reason to be excited about Guilherme’s raw talent. While immediate first-team action might be unlikely, his physical attributes and attacking prowess offer promise for the future, especially with proper development under Lopetegui.
There is a growing sense of optimism about the new season!