In a recent report, El Intransigente has revealed that West Ham United playmaker Manuel Lanzini wants to return to River Plate. However, it is understood that the Hammers are planning to keep the Argentine attacker at the London Stadium beyond this summer (via El Intransigente).
Lanzini’s Lacklustre Campaign At The English Capital
Lanzini has endured a frustrating season at East London after struggling to find consistency with his performances in the final third over the past ten months. The 28-year-old has scored one goal and provided three assists in 24 matches for the Hammers last season in various competitions.
Most of his appearances have come off the bench which explains why he is only averaging 0.7 shots, 0.6 key passes and 0.4 dribbles per game in the Premier League. At least he has distributed possession relatively well as he has completed 90.5% of his attempted passes in the top-flight of English football (stats via whoscored).
At 28, Lanzini has already entered the peak stage of his playing career, so he needs to ensure regular game time in the upcoming campaign if he wants to re-establish himself as an accomplished playmaker at the highest level.
Can The Hammers Afford To Let Lanzini Go?
On his day, Lanzini can be a joy to watch because of his low centre of gravity and ability to create plays for his teammates in the opposition half. He has got the vision to play a decisive pass in the attacking third and can strike the ball with venom and accuracy from long range.
However, there is no denying the fact that the Argentine talent has struggled to be productive in front of the opponent’s goal as he has failed to make himself a regular starter under the stewardship of David Moyes.
Even then, West Ham cannot afford to let Lanzini go when they are set to take part in next season’s UEFA Europa League. Moyes would need a strong squad if he wants his players to challenge on all fronts in the upcoming campaign.
Lanzini has still got what it takes to serve as a valuable squad player at the London Stadium. With still over two years left to run in the Argentine’s contract, Moyes has no immediate reason to sanction his departure this summer.
