In a social media post after West Ham United’s 3-0 win over Southampton on Saturday (via Football.London), Marko Arnautovic hinted that his immediate future lies at the London Stadium and said, “We go next season.”
Manuel Pellegrini also addressed the future of the Austrian striker yesterday and stated (via Football.London), “I am sure this season for him will have been a good lesson, he learned some things and I am absolutely convinced next season we will see a great Marko.”
The recent revelations made by both the player and the manager will be a welcome bit of news for West Ham supporters as Arnautovic could still play an integral role for them next season.
Arnautovic’s Return To Form
The 30-year-old has struggled to find form in the Hammers colours of late, but he put those demons to bed when he scored a brace against the Saints on Saturday. The Austrian international has slowly but surely found his goal-scoring touch at the East London club so he might feel that the season is ending at the wrong time for him.
What Does He Add To Pellegrini’s Team?
Arnautovic is a technically gifted forward who knows how to find the back of the opposition net consistently when playing with confidence on the pitch. However, his attitude can sometimes get in the way which has been a concern for West Ham.
Retaining his top talents should be Pellegrini’s number one priority for this upcoming summer window so the Hammers cannot afford to lose a player of Arnautovic’s goal-scoring prowess. Thus, the Chilean head coach should do everything in his power to keep the Austrian striker happy in England.
Retaining Arnautovic: Good News For The Hammers?
If the 30-year-old forward does end up leaving West Ham in this off-season, then Pellegrini could find it difficult to replace him and his goals. Arnautovic has featured in 28 matches for the East London giants this term, scoring eight goals while providing four assists in all competitions.
Even though his numbers this season are not exceptional by any means, yet he has the X-factor to be a match-winner when firing on all cylinders up top. Thus, it will be a great move for the future of the club if they end up retaining Arnautovic’s services for now.
