West Ham United‘s armband is set to have a new owner under Julen Lopetegui, with reports suggesting a shake-up in leadership. The Athletic’s Roshane Thomas claims uncertainty surrounding Kurt Zouma’s future has opened the door for a change at the helm
The new Spanish manager is evaluating potential captains, with several names emerging as contenders. Players like Edson Alvarez, Tomas Soucek, and Vladimir Coufal, known for their strong leadership qualities on the pitch, are in the mix
However, the most intriguing contender appears to be Jarrod Bowen. The 27-year-old forward has established himself as the team’s talisman, consistently delivering impressive performances. His leadership qualities are undeniable, and the captaincy could further enhance his influence on the team
Traditionally, captains often come from the defensive or midfield positions. Bowen’s attacking role presents a unique scenario, but his impact on the pitch makes him a strong candidate nonetheless
West Ham boasts a squad with several natural leaders. For some players, the captain’s armband might not be the sole determinant of their leadership role
The ultimate decision rests with Lopetegui. He will need to choose a captain who embodies his vision for the team and inspires leadership on and off the pitch. Zouma’s potential departure adds another layer of complexity to the situation
With the new season approaching, West Ham finds itself in a fascinating captaincy conundrum. Jarrod Bowen’s attacking prowess combined with his leadership qualities make him a frontrunner. However, Lopetegui has a pool of talented options at his disposal. The choice he makes will be a significant indicator of his vision for the future of West Ham United.
Harry Kane, a striker, is England captain and was captain at Spurs, where Son Heung-Min, a striker, is currently captain. I’m sure there are plenty of other examples of decent captains not being a defender or even a midfielder.
It’s Jarrod for me!
Ok that’s decided then. I think we’ve all agreed on Bowen for captain. Except I think somehow Lopetegui will want Max Kilman to be his captain whether he’s new to the club or not. Lopetegui was prepared to pay a lot of money for his former captain Probably overpaid and I think the reason for that is Lillian will be his trusted Luitenant on the pitch and off the pitch.
My choice for captain would always be a player that is the consumate professional who has earned the armband through his performance, and his ability to read the game, coupled with the respect of the whole club.
As “Jeeps” suggests, Bowen had earned the armband and thoroughly deserves it. His attitude and lack of tatts and silly hair doors and off – field antics, and the fact that he already ” has the dressing room” makes him the obvious choice. Kilman should be reserve for this season and we can see how it all works out. Ultimately, I think the Captain should be calling the shots from a defensive/ midfield position but Bowen, who is all over the place, is a rare exception to the rule.
Zouma probably won’t start next season and Soucek and Coufal not guaranteed starters. Lopetegui obviously likes Kilman but not sure he should come straight in as captain. Bowen gives everything on the pitch and would give inspiration to others. Would make a good captain
Bowen seems to be ideal choice due to his dedication as being an out and out whu man. He also has the respect of both new and established players.
If you maintain captain should come from defence would probably opt for Alvarez but he does need to be a bit more disciplined (stay away from continual bookings) and lead by example.
It’s been well publicised about Kilman (and maybe JLo choice) but as a newbie he needs to settle into club and get to know players before taking on added responsibility of armbands.
He’s been brought in to seal our leaky defence let him concentrate on job in hand.
Yes great captains don’t have to be gobby. They can lead by example as did Bobby Moore. So though he’s in the quieter side Jarrod Bowen could prove to be an inspirational choice for captain, as might Kilman.