West Ham United may have won the Europa Conference League last term, but there was plenty of discontent within the fanbase due to the team’s Premier League struggles.
Can David Moyes silence his critics once again?
• Manager: David Moyes
• Stadium: London Stadium
• Last Season: 14th
West Ham finished the previous campaign on a high note, lifting their first European trophy since 1965.
However, following the recent departure of star midfielder Declan Rice, the Hammers could struggle to build on last season’s achievements.
Divin and Pablo putting the work in 👊 pic.twitter.com/CGjiU6Uu0c— West Ham United (@WestHam) August 2, 2023
Divin and Pablo putting the work in 👊 pic.twitter.com/CGjiU6Uu0c
David Moyes’ side spent a sizeable portion of the previous campaign in and around the relegation zone.
Despite losing five of their final seven league games, West Ham eventually finished 14th – six points clear of the drop zone.
The Hammers lost 20 of their 38 Premier League encounters last term, picking up 11 wins and seven draws along the way.
However, their season ended in the best way possible – with a European triumph in Prague.
Thanks to Jarrod Bowen’s 90th-minute winner, West Ham defeated Italian side Fiorentina 2-1 in the Europa Conference League final.
Including qualifiers, the Hammers won 14 of their 15 European clashes last season, recording a solitary draw in the process.
It goes without saying that Declan Rice will be sorely missed by West Ham following his big-money move to London rivals Arsenal.
The former captain made 245 appearances in the claret and blue, endearing himself to the fans.
Michail Antonio was the club’s top scorer last term, netting 14 goals across all competitions.
Meanwhile Jarrod Bowen contributed 13 goals and eight assists, while Said Benrahma chipped in with 12 goals and five assists.
Newcomers Lucas Paqueta and Nayef Aguerd also established themselves as pivotal players last season.
Naturally, Moyes will be hoping that both players can pick up where they left off and hit the ground running in 2023-24.
West Ham fans will be desperate for their side to avoid another relegation scare during the upcoming campaign.
Last season’s European triumph masked the team’s Premier League struggles, but that won’t always be the case.
Having received in excess of £100m for Declan Rice, the Hammers must spend their money wisely before the transfer window closes.
Ultimately, their signings could be the difference between a good and bad season.
Do you find that interesting? Then check out our Bournemouth Insight!