West Ham’s Benrahma Joins Lyon on Loan: Official Confirmation
West Ham United has officially confirmed that Algerian winger Said Benrahma has joined Lyon on loan for the remainder of the season. The deal also includes an option for Lyon to make the transfer permanent in the summer. This announcement comes after a bizarre 18 hours where the deal was not completed by the transfer deadline and Lyon accused West Ham of “incomprehensible” behavior. However, Fifa has now confirmed the deal, rendering Lyon’s claims baseless.
The Hammers have chosen not to respond to the allegations made by Lyon, but officials at the club are reportedly furious at what they perceive as inaccurate and potentially damaging statements. In a statement released by West Ham, the club expressed their well wishes for Benrahma as he joins Lyon.
Said Benrahma, 28, initially joined West Ham on loan from Brentford in October 2020 before making the move permanent three months later. His current deal with the Hammers runs until 2026. He notably scored the opening goal in West Ham’s 2-1 victory against Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final last year, which marked their first trophy in 43 years. However, this season Benrahma has struggled to find the net.
The Algerian winger faced further disappointment when he was sent off during West Ham’s 1-0 FA Cup third-round replay defeat against Bristol City in January. In addition, he was controversially left out of Algeria’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite these setbacks, Benrahma remains a talented player with immense potential.
Following the initial collapse of the transfer, Lyon stated that they reserved the right to hold West Ham responsible if necessary. However, with Fifa confirming the completion of the deal, it is unlikely that any further action will be taken.
West Ham manager David Moyes shed some light on the situation, revealing that it seemed like last-minute issues with paperwork had derailed the transfer. Moyes only learned about the complications after his team’s match against Bournemouth.
In conclusion, Said Benrahma’s loan move to Lyon has finally been officially confirmed by West Ham United. Despite the temporary setback and allegations made by Lyon, the deal has now been validated by Fifa. West Ham fans will undoubtedly be eagerly watching Benrahma’s progress in Lyon, hoping that he can regain his scoring form and continue to excel on the pitch.