Said Benrahma’s time at West Ham United appears to be drawing to a close, with the arrival of new manager Julen Lopetegui unlikely to alter his departure.
Currently on loan at Lyon, the Algerian winger has impressed in Ligue 1, bagging three goals and three assists in just 13 games. Lyon holds an option to buy Benrahma for a reported £12.3 million, and according to the Evening Standard, Lopetegui is not expected to stand in their way.
Fair play to the lad. While acknowledging Benrahma’s talent, he did struggle under David Moyes’ system and perhaps he did always lack the physical attributes needed to consistently thrive in the Premier League.
Lopetegui’s arrival signifies a new chapter for West Ham, and his focus seems to be on building his squad with fresh acquisitions. Letting Benrahma leave frees up space and potentially resources for these signings.
Benrahma appears to have found a more suitable environment at Lyon. Playing under a more progressive manager in Peter Bosz, he has rediscovered his attacking spark. A permanent move to Lyon could offer him stability and a platform to showcase his talents in Ligue 1.
Despite his past contributions (24 goals and 20 assists in 155 games for West Ham), Benrahma’s struggles under Moyes and potential limitations in the Premier League always cast did doubt on his future at the London Stadium.
Yet another one bites the dust !