“From Flops to Stars: The Surprising Fates of Every Player Who Left West Ham Last Summer!
Last summer, West Ham underwent a significant squad overhaul as new manager Julen Lopetegui and technical director Tim Stiedten aimed to build a team capable of consistent European competition.
David Moyes had previously done an excellent job over four years but often faced criticism for lacking depth, which sometimes affected the team, particularly later in the seasons when players were fatigued. Moyes frequently had limited options on the bench to change games or rotate his squad during busy periods.
Thus, it was clear from the beginning that Lopetegui and Stiedten had a considerable task ahead, not only to strengthen the starting lineup but also to enhance the bench’s quality. The club made nine signings, investing around £150 million to improve the squad, while allowing eleven players to leave, including several youngsters.
Most of the departing players struggled for form or playing time towards the end of Moyes’ tenure, although a few fans believed some still had potential contributions to offer. Here’s how those who left the club last summer are faring:
Flynn Downes – Southampton
Downes, a Hammers fan, spent last season on loan at Southampton, helping them secure promotion back to the Premier League. He made a permanent move for around £15 million and has started all nine league games this season, captaining the team four times.
Said Benrahma – Lyon
After a successful loan at Lyon, Benrahma joined the club permanently for about £10 million. He has had a solid start to the season, contributing two goals and two assists in nine appearances, including a goal in a Europa League match against Olympiacos.
Thilo Kehrer – Monaco
Kehrer, who spent the latter half of last season on loan, made his move to Monaco permanent and has impressed, scoring twice and assisting once in ten appearances. He has played every minute of Monaco’s Champions League campaign, including a win against Barcelona.
Nathan Trott – FC Copenhagen
After several loan spells, Trott secured a permanent move to FC Copenhagen, where he has become a regular starter, making 21 appearances and keeping eight clean sheets. He is proving to be a key player as Copenhagen competes in both the Danish Superliga and the Europa Conference League.
Ben Johnson – Ipswich Town
Johnson declined to renew his contract with West Ham in search of more first-team opportunities and joined Ipswich Town. However, he has struggled to find playing time, making only four league appearances and being left out of the squad for the last two matches.
Angelo Ogbonna – Watford
Ogbonna, who enjoyed a successful career at West Ham, signed for Watford in the Championship. Although he has played five matches, he has completed 90 minutes in four of them, showcasing his experience, even as he has recently missed the last two fixtures.
Joseph Anang – St. Patrick’s Athletic
Anang left West Ham for St. Patrick’s Athletic to gain first-team experience. He played all six of the club’s Conference League qualifiers and has featured in all league matches as the team began the season with a strong run.
Divin Mubama – Manchester City
Mubama’s departure from West Ham surprised many, especially as he was gaining more game time. He signed for Manchester City but is currently in their youth setup and has yet to make the first-team bench.
Nayef Aguerd – Real Sociedad
Aguerd was loaned to Real Sociedad after not making West Ham’s squad for the last six matches of the previous season. He has since made nine appearances for Sociedad, including two in the Europa League.
James Ward-Prowse – Nottingham Forest
Ward-Prowse’s loan departure has been debated, particularly as the West Ham midfield has struggled. At Nottingham Forest, he started well but is currently suspended, missing several matches, including one against his parent club.
Kurt Zouma – Al Orobah
Zouma’s fitness issues led to his loan to Al Orobah in the Saudi Pro League. He has made five appearances, including one as captain, but has recently missed the last two matchday squads.
Maxwel Cornet – Southampton
Cornet had a disappointing spell at West Ham and moved on loan to Southampton. However, he has also struggled for playing time, making only three appearances so far this season.
In summary, while some former players are thriving in their new environments, others continue to face challenges after leaving West Ham.
