“He’s the Most TALENTED player in West Ham, but Lopetegui is wasting his talent.” – Fans blasts West Ham manager for misusing star player, says Lopetegui is playing a dangerous game.

West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui is playing a risky game with the club’s most talented player, Mohammed Kudus. Since his arrival from Ajax last summer, Kudus has quickly proven his worth, establishing himself as one of the Hammers’ most gifted players. Despite this, questions have arisen about how Lopetegui is utilizing the Ghanaian star, particularly regarding his positioning on the field.

Mohammed Kudus: West Ham’s Star Signing

Mohammed Kudus joined West Ham United in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of around £38 million from Ajax. The move was seen as a significant coup for the Hammers, securing a player with immense potential and a bright future. Kudus wasted no time in making an impact, delivering 14 goals and six assists in his first 47 appearances for the club. These numbers are impressive, especially considering he was new to the Premier League and still adjusting to English football.

Kudus’s talent has not gone unnoticed. He has quickly become a fan favorite at the London Stadium, with many considering him the most naturally gifted player on the team. His ability to change the course of a game with his skill, speed, and vision makes him an invaluable asset to the squad.

Ambition and Potential Departure

Despite his success at West Ham, there are already concerns about Kudus’s long-term future at the club. The 24-year-old has expressed his ambition to play for a top European club competing for major trophies, which has fueled speculation about his potential departure. According to reports, Kudus has an £85 million release clause that will become active next summer, which could attract attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

This situation puts West Ham in a precarious position. While the club would like to keep hold of their star player, they may be forced to sell him to finance other deals, such as the permanent signing of Jean-Clair Todibo. Losing Kudus would be a significant blow to the team, especially given his contribution on the pitch.

Lopetegui’s Tactical Gamble

Julen Lopetegui, known for his tactical acumen, has made some bold decisions regarding Kudus’s role in the team. However, his choice to play Kudus primarily on the left wing has raised eyebrows. While Kudus is versatile and can operate in multiple positions, his effectiveness diminishes when he is deployed out wide, particularly on the left.

Kudus’s best moments often come when he is positioned centrally, where he can utilize his dribbling, passing, and goal-scoring abilities more effectively. An example of this was evident during West Ham’s recent match against Crystal Palace, where Kudus picked up the ball in a central area, beat four defenders with his skill and strength, and created a dangerous opportunity. However, when confined to the left wing, Kudus’s influence wanes as he is forced to cross the ball rather than take shots on goal or make incisive passes.

Lopetegui’s decision to play Kudus out of position is seen as a tactical gamble that could backfire. By not placing Kudus in his most effective role, the manager risks not only limiting the player’s impact but also potentially alienating him. Kudus is a player with high ambitions, and if he feels that his talents are not being fully utilized, it could lead to dissatisfaction and a desire to move elsewhere.

Optimizing Kudus’s Role

To get the best out of Mohammed Kudus, Lopetegui may need to reconsider his current tactics. One option could be to move Lucas Paqueta back to the left wing, allowing Kudus to play in a central role behind the main striker. This position would enable Kudus to be more involved in the game, increasing his opportunities to score and create chances.

Alternatively, Kudus could be deployed on the right wing, where he can cut inside onto his stronger left foot. However, this would require some adjustments, as Jarrod Bowen currently occupies that position. One possible solution could be to play Bowen as a central striker, allowing Kudus to take up the right-wing role.

Whatever the solution, it is clear that West Ham needs to maximize Kudus’s potential by playing him in a position that suits his strengths. Doing so would not only enhance the team’s performance but also help to keep Kudus happy and motivated, reducing the risk of him seeking a move away from the club.

The Stakes for West Ham

Keeping Mohammed Kudus at West Ham beyond the summer of 2025 should be a top priority for Julen Lopetegui and the club’s management. However, this will only be possible if Kudus feels valued and is given the opportunity to play to his full potential. Lopetegui’s current tactics, which involve playing Kudus out of position, are a dangerous game that could jeopardize the club’s relationship with their star player.

The worst-case scenario is that Kudus becomes frustrated with his role at West Ham and pushes for an exit. This outcome would be devastating for the Hammers, as finding a player of Kudus’s caliber would be incredibly difficult. To avoid this, Lopetegui must act quickly to adjust his tactics and ensure that Kudus is played in a role that maximizes his impact on the field.

In conclusion, Mohammed Kudus is undoubtedly one of the most talented players at West Ham United, and keeping him happy should be a key focus for the club. Julen Lopetegui’s decision to play him out of position is a risky move that could have serious consequences. To secure Kudus’s future at the London Stadium, the manager must optimize his role within the team, allowing him to thrive and continue to deliver match-winning performances.