Just back in June of 2023 the West Ham squad was riding high – that unforgettable night in Prague leading to the clubs first trophy since 1980 and the incredible open top-bus tour in glorious sunshine the next afternoon as 80,000 of us stood and welcomed our Hammers heroes back with the silverware.
It is hard to see how fast some of those heroes have fallen from that lofty career summit, none more so than goal scorer that night Saïd Benrahma.
From cooly firing home the penalty for West Ham’s first goal on that Wednesday night, the Algerian has had moves first away from West Ham to Olympic Lyon on loan, and then on a permanent sale at the end of that loan to the French side.
Benrahma failed to make an impact at Lyon after 37 appearances and was loaned out to Saudi second tier (first division) side NEOM SC in a bid to relaunch his career.
The Saudi side have a compulsory purchase clause for just €12 million to buy Benrahma if they are successful in gaining promotion at the end of this season.
Still only 29, it seems Benrahama has been unable to find even a hint of the form that produced 110 West Ham Premier League appearances and 15 goals.
‘Benny’s’ career highlight – that penalty in Prague
There does seem something of a missed opportunity for ‘Benny’ to have excelled – an undoubtedly skilful player, seems he never found the right coach to harness his talents and point him in the right direction.
Maybe there is still time for him with a ‘second coming’ if his side manage to get promoted to the Saudi Pro League: They’re currently topping the league table so maybe there is hope for Benrahma to shine again.
