By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
The messaging from West Ham this pre-season has been encouraging, but unfortunately, it is just that… messaging.
Up until the point where we actually see some activity in the transfer market, we’ll not be able to truly look into the whites of the new ownership’s eyes and discover how they’ll perform in building a squad capable of gaining promotion back to the Premier League.
So Far, The Message Has Been Positive
So far, there have been some admirable pledges to retain key players, but as far as the ins and outs go, we’ve lost Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham Hotspur for £85 million.
That said, I do believe there’s an element of pragmatism and understanding from the West Ham fanbase, who are realistic enough to know a 21-year-old was always destined to leave the London Stadium.
That same rationale applies to Crysencio Summerville.
But after that, the club’s promise to retain key players and keep a squad capable of promotion at the first attempt will truly be put to the test.
Mavropanos Must Be One Of The Untouchables
For that reason, I believe it is absolutely imperative we hold on to Konstantinos Mavropanos.
Last night, Sky Sports went big on the story that several Premier League clubs were serious about the Greek international.
One of those was Arsenal, although it’s difficult to see exactly where he would fit into the Gunners’ already impressive defence.
Given the understanding that some players will have to be sold, I believe it is imperative the club do everything within their power to keep hold of Mavropanos, Jarrod Bowen and Taty Castellanos.
That means rejecting offers, instructing the players and their agents that they’ll be held to their contracts and perhaps even offering a financial sweetener should promotion be achieved.
Now Comes The Hard Part
With Axel Disasi already gone and Jean-Clair Todibo unlikely to play for the club again, the Hammers simply cannot head into the new season with Max Kilman as their only senior central defender.
It is now time for the West Ham hierarchy and Daniel Kretinsky to move on from encouraging statements and ambitious pledges and start backing them up with actions.
That starts by doing exactly what they promised.
Keeping the key players.
Only about 6 months ago most commenters about Mav were desperate to see him gone. Like most CBs he needed confidence and quality next to him, so he’s only 50% of what we need.
Kilman’s confidence has been battered till he’s scared of the ball. Nobody will match his wages even at 50% so we’re stuck with him. Best hope is he can be rebuilt to some extent so get some money back in the end and have a 3rd choice behind Mav+1 for this season.
Question: If Sully is out of sight will there be less negativity flying around aimed at players?
Actions speak louder than words, so let’s see some please !
Gonzo, I actually don’t quite see it like that. If someone comes in for Mav. Just double/ treble the price we paid for him as what we want. Stick to pay up or move on. Doesn’t matter what other people say he is worth, that’s what he is worth to us at this point. Remember football changes rapidly.
Every whu fan knows part of their support is patience.
Which is ok for incoming but players that are staying could be announced.
Probably not good for the media as it eliminates a number of articles.
Cat and mouse game continues.