The owners of West Ham United are reportedly not entirely pleased with the lack of impact made by one of their key summer signings.
Julen Lopetegui was extremely active in the transfer market, securing nine new players for the club as part of a much-needed squad overhaul.
However, the integration of these new faces has led to a slow and challenging start to the season for the Hammers, leaving questions about the effectiveness of these signings.
Lopetegui, feeling the pressure to deliver results quickly, is said to have given reassurances to the board that he will turn the situation around. But so far, the team has underperformed. One player, in particular, has drawn criticism for his lack of immediate impact on the squad.
Luis Guilherme underwhelms West Ham board:
Among the new arrivals is Brazilian youngster Luis Guilherme, who joined from Palmeiras for a reported fee of £25 million. Although the teenager was a highly anticipated signing, he has yet to make his senior debut for West Ham in a competitive fixture.
Instead, he has been turning out for the under-21s, even scoring the opener in their 2-2 draw with Benfica last week. However, despite this, it’s clear that Guilherme is not yet ready for the intensity and demands of regular Premier League football.
According to insider reports from Hammers’ journalist Sean Whetstone, the club’s hierarchy is less than convinced by Guilherme’s progress.
Whetstone revealed, “West Ham’s summer Brazilian gamble Luis Guilherme is taking longer than anticipated to come good, but there is still hope he can make the Premier League grade eventually.”
West Ham invested heavily in the 18-year-old, paying Palmeiras a sum of £25 million, including add-ons and a sell-on clause, in the hope that he would develop into a top talent. But the board’s patience may be wearing thin.
Time is on Guilherme’s side:
Although the owners may be concerned, it’s important to remember that Guilherme is still just 18 years old and adjusting to a new league and culture.
Moving from South America to the Premier League is a significant leap, even for the most talented players.
The Brazilian has been described as ‘extraordinary’ and ‘sensational’ by Palmeiras’ vice-president, Paulo Buosi, and possesses great pace and technical ability, as well as huge potential for the future.
However, patience will be required if West Ham want to see the best of him. Given time, he could well become a major star for the club. The question is whether the owners, fans, and Lopetegui will allow him that luxury of time.
Despite the concerns, Guilherme’s signing was always viewed as a long-term investment rather than an instant fix. He may not break into the senior team this season, but if West Ham supporters remain patient, the club could have a future star on their hands.
Some fans, however, have expressed frustration that resources were not spent elsewhere, particularly on missing out on Jhon Duran.
But as Whetstone suggests, it’s important to look forward, not back, and hope that Guilherme can justify his price tag in the coming years.