“Must be benched” Loperegui tipped to brutally axe staggering player with 5.6 average rating so far this season to start “complete midfielder” against Liverpool in Carabao clash.
Some West Ham United fans might be looking back at David Moyes with regret, but his departure at the end of the 2023/24 season was likely justified. Although the team hadn’t completely collapsed, it had lost momentum, and after such a successful period, change was necessary. Julen Lopetegui was brought in, and change has certainly been underway.
The club spent £120 million on new players, but not all of them have had the chance to make their mark yet. Let’s focus on two of those signings.
Carlos Soler and Jean-Clair Todibo Still Waiting to Make an Impact
Carlos Soler and Jean-Clair Todibo both arrived from Ligue 1 on season-long loans, with the potential to become permanent deals. Soler, known for his creative play, has been limited to just two substitute appearances so far. Former Valencia star Curro Torres once called him the “complete midfielder,” and it might be time for him to step into the starting lineup. West Ham’s midfield has lacked inspiration, and with Liverpool coming up, Soler could have the opportunity to shine and secure a regular spot—especially after Guido Rodriguez’s poor performance against Chelsea.
Todibo, on the other hand, did start in the Carabao Cup against Bournemouth but was substituted at halftime after a lackluster display. Still, his ball-playing abilities could be crucial to unlocking West Ham’s potential. According to FBref, Todibo ranks among the top centre-backs in Europe’s major leagues for passes attempted, shot-creating actions, progressive passes, carries, take-ons, and tackles.
These players are likely to play more prominent roles as the season progresses, but one West Ham player may need to step back: Michail Antonio.
Why Michail Antonio Needs to Be Benched
Many West Ham supporters likely regret missing out on signing Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran this summer. Duran, who was linked to West Ham, has had a stellar start to the season, including scoring against them on opening day. While Niclas Fullkrug’s start has been hindered by injury, Antonio has led the line in the opening matches but has failed to make an impact. Without a single goal contribution, his underlying stats show a decline in his effectiveness in Lopetegui’s system.
Although West Ham were defeated by Chelsea last weekend, it’s doubtful Antonio would have made much of a difference. His performances have regressed across key metrics, and while he’s always been a physical striker, age seems to be catching up with him, reducing his ability to dominate defenders.
West Ham’s creative issues have also contributed to Antonio’s struggles, with the team ranking last in the Premier League for big chances created. However, a younger, more dynamic forward could offer far more than Antonio has this season. At 34, Antonio’s time in the starting lineup may be over. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, it might be time for him to move on, especially considering his £85k per week salary, which is more than both Soler and Todibo.
Although Fullkrug’s signing made sense to some extent, West Ham now has two central strikers over 30, neither of whom offers the best mobility. Duran, with his pace and goal-scoring ability, would have been a better fit. It’s time for Antonio to step aside.