Former Crystal Palace man, Aaron Wan-Bissaka has opened up about the challenges of leaving Manchester United in the summer, admitting it was a tough decision to part ways with the club after four seasons.
United triggered a one-year extension on Wan-Bissaka’s contract earlier this year, intending to secure a transfer fee during the summer window.
West Ham eventually agreed a £15 million deal in August, offering the right-back a seven-year contract. The move allowed Wan-Bissaka to return to his hometown of London, a factor that played a significant role in his decision.
During his time at Old Trafford, the 26-year-old made 190 appearances and earned a reputation as one of the Premier League’s finest defensive full-backs, even though his attacking contributions were often criticised.
He played a pivotal role in United’s recent success under Erik ten Hag, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024. His standout performances in both finals highlighted his value to the team, even as the club opted to replace him with Moroccan international Noussair Mazraoui this summer.
Speaking to Sky Sports this week, Wan-Bissaka reflected on his return to London and the satisfaction of being closer to his family.
“I’m happy to be back, I’m closer to home,” he said. “Also, it’s a new challenge, with a new team, so it’s been good. What have I missed? The weather! Where I was before, it was always raining and cloudy.”
The Croydon-born defender also acknowledged the importance of his family’s support.
“It’s great, they’ve been supporting me ever since, so for them to be able to come and watch my games quite often now is good. The location and the manager’s project attracted me.”
Wan-Bissaka admitted that leaving United was not a straightforward decision.
“To be honest, I wasn’t really thinking about it too much [leaving United]. I was trying to keep my head down in pre-season and focus on becoming fit.
“It’s always difficult to leave, it’s not a simple decision and you have to think about the other stuff that comes with it. I’m proud. The whole journey [in Manchester].
“Whatever it’s come with. The ups and downs. Being able to get two cups out of it. Going through that experience was amazing.”
Reflecting on United’s FA Cup triumph over Manchester City, he added: “It was a great team performance. Even going into that game we had a good feeling that we would get something out of this. To end it with a trophy, I can’t have asked for anything better.”
Looking ahead to this weekend’s Premier League clash, Wan-Bissaka acknowledged the challenge of facing his former teammates.
“It will be a great challenge. I know what they’re capable of, having trained with them every day, so I know what to expect. We have to be prepared. It’s a team game, and I can only give my best and try to help the team.
“It’s not easy to put things together and for it to click. Everybody is working hard, everybody is pushing each other to make things work. If we keep that mindset, it will happen. I’m excited. I can see it from the training pitch how hungry everybody is. It’s only a matter of time.”
West Ham, under new manager Julen Lopetegui, had been tipped to challenge for European qualification this season. However, the Hammers have struggled to find consistency and currently sit 15th in the table, leaving plenty of work to do in the months ahead.