Breathtaking Point of view as Lopetegui set to make AUDACIOUS move to SIGN merseyside Top defender with exceptional EPL defensive record alongside Van Djik.
Joel Matip, once a key figure for Schalke 04 and Liverpool, is currently without a club. After his contract with Liverpool expired in the summer of 2023, the 33-year-old defender has been recovering from a serious cruciate ligament injury he sustained in December 2023. Since then, Matip has been sidelined, and despite various transfer rumours, he remains a free agent.
According to RUHR, Matip was in talks with Bayer Leverkusen in August, but no agreement was reached. More recently, rumours have linked the former Schalke and Liverpool defender with a potential return to the Premier League, with West Ham United reportedly showing interest in signing him.
### Matip’s Journey Post-Liverpool
Matip’s exit from Liverpool ended an eight-year spell during which he won the Premier League, Champions League, and other major trophies. His last competitive appearance came in a dramatic 4-3 win over Fulham in December 2023, but since then, injuries have kept him off the field.
With West Ham potentially eyeing him, there is growing speculation about whether Matip could make a return to the Premier League. His experience and defensive skills might be appealing to David Moyes, especially as West Ham look to strengthen their defensive options.
### What Could West Ham Offer Matip?
West Ham are known for adding seasoned players to enhance their squad, and a fully fit Matip could bring valuable experience from both the Bundesliga and Premier League. However, his injury history and extended absence from competitive play raise legitimate concerns.
### EPL Index Analysis
The potential signing of Joel Matip brings mixed feelings. On the positive side, Matip is an experienced and accomplished defender who has played at the highest level, bringing stability to any defence. His leadership and proven track record could be beneficial in a Premier League season where squad depth is essential due to injuries and fatigue.
However, the concerns are clear. Matip has not played competitively in almost a year, and his history of injuries is a risk. West Ham have been performing well lately, and adding a player with Matip’s injury issues might disrupt the cohesion that manager David Moyes has worked hard to build. Additionally, with defenders like Nayef Aguerd and Kurt Zouma forming solid partnerships, Matip’s arrival could either strengthen or unsettle the current backline.
If the financial terms of the deal are sensible and don’t impact other potential transfers, Matip could be a smart short-term solution. However, many fans might prefer the club to focus on younger, fitter players with long-term potential, rather than taking a gamble on a player in the twilight of his career.