West Ham United kicked off the Julen Lopetegui era with a 2-2 draw against Hungarian side Ferencvaros in their pre-season friendly in Kitzbuhel. The match provided a first glimpse of the club’s new signings, Max Kilman, Luis Guilherme, and Wes Foderingham, as well as opportunities for young players from the academy.
Kilman, who joined from Wolves for a hefty fee of £40 million ($51.9m), partnered Konstantinos Mavropanos in defense in the first half. Despite a shaky start that saw West Ham concede two goals, Kilman showcased his ability to play from the back and build a strong on-field relationship with his defensive partners.
Guilherme, the £25.5 million ($33m) signing from Palmeiras, started on the left flank and impressed with his speed and attacking intent. The 18-year-old Brazilian, who idolizes Lionel Messi, started his career as a midfielder before transitioning to a forward. Lopetegui expressed confidence in Guilherme’s ability to adapt quickly to English football and praised him as a promising player for the club.
Foderingham, brought in as a free signing from Sheffield United, performed solidly after replacing Lukasz Fabianski in goal. Initially signed as the third-choice goalkeeper, Foderingham will now aim to provide competition to Fabianski and the club’s number one, Alphonse Areola.
One standout performer in the friendly was Danny Ings, West Ham’s only recognized striker in the camp. Ings, who scored a free kick in the draw, has had limited playing time recently and is eager to prove himself to Lopetegui and the fans. Despite West Ham’s search for a new striker, Ings is determined to showcase his goal-scoring abilities and contribute to the team’s success.
The match also provided an opportunity for young academy players to shine. Freddie Potts, Lewis Orford, Gideon Kodua, George Earthy, Patrick Kelly, Kaelan Casey, Callum Marshall, and Sean Moore all featured in the friendly. Potts, son of club legend Steve Potts and brother of Luton Town’s Dan Potts, was voted player of the year following a successful loan spell at Wycombe Wanderers.
With several key players set to return to training at a later date, Lopetegui has included most of the under-21 players in the pre-season preparations. The youngsters impressed with their performances, and Lopetegui’s high-pressing style has been well received by the team.
Overall, West Ham’s first pre-season friendly under Lopetegui provided valuable insights into the new signings, showcased the potential of young academy players, and highlighted the determination of established players like Ings to make an impact. With further preparations ahead of the new season, West Ham fans can look forward to an exciting era under their new head coach.