Nuno Espirito Santo Delivers Parting Shot at Lucas Paqueta Amid Survival Pledge
West Ham United manager Nuno Espirito Santo has issued a stark assessment of Lucas Paqueta's departure, asserting that his team now possesses a "committed squad" ready to fight for Premier League survival. The Portuguese boss made these remarks ahead of a pivotal relegation clash against fellow strugglers Burnley this weekend.
Paqueta's Exit and Squad Rebalancing
Nuno Espirito Santo addressed the sale of Brazilian playmaker Lucas Paqueta, who forced a move back to Flamengo in the January transfer window, citing a back injury. The manager implied that Paqueta's exit has allowed West Ham to refocus, bringing in five new signings to strengthen their ranks. These include France defender Axel Disasi on loan from Chelsea, alongside Pablo, Valentino Castellanos, Adama Traore, and Keiber Lamadrid.
"We brought players that made sense to us in terms of rebalancing our squad," Espirito Santo stated. "The players that came in, I think they can help. It's a very tricky window to operate in, but I think we have a committed squad now and we have to move forward."
Confidence in Survival and New Signings' Bravery
Despite West Ham languishing in 18th place, six points from safety, Espirito Santo expressed unwavering confidence in their ability to avoid the drop. "I'm totally convinced that we're going to be OK," he declared, urging fans to remain positive. He praised the courage of the new arrivals, noting that joining a club in a relegation battle requires bravery and commitment.
"They realise it and they realised even before they join us," he said. "You have to be brave to join a club in the situation that you are, and they've shown that purpose, this commitment to come here and help."
Challenges Ahead and Disciplinary Warnings
The manager highlighted the immediate challenges, with defender Jean-Clair Todibo suspended after a red card in the previous match against Chelsea. This could see Disasi make his debut at Burnley, despite not playing this season. Espirito Santo emphasized the need for discipline, calling Todibo's dismissal a "big mess" and a mistake the team cannot afford to repeat.
"We cannot afford to make mistakes, especially disciplinary mistakes," he warned, underscoring the high stakes of their survival bid.
As West Ham prepare for the critical trip to Turf Moor, Espirito Santo's message is clear: with a rebalanced and dedicated squad, they are poised to secure their Premier League status, leaving the Paqueta saga behind.
