Sport Nation 2Pablo Fornals, the Spanish midfielder who made over 200 appearances for West Ham United, has revealed how manager David Moyes made him cry on his final day with the club. In an emotional interview, Fornals reflected on his time at West Ham and the poignant moment when Moyes gave a heartfelt speech in front of the entire team, leaving him overwhelmed with emotion.
Fornals joined West Ham in 2019 and quickly became a key player for the club, contributing not only with his skills but also with his dedication and passion on the pitch. After four-and-a-half years with the Hammers, Fornals made the decision to move to Real Betis, departing just before the winter transfer deadline earlier this year. His exit marked the end of a significant chapter in both his career and West Ham’s recent history.
The Farewell Speech That Moved Fornals to Tears
Speaking to The Athletic’s Roshane Thomas, Fornals revealed that his final day at West Ham was an emotional one, especially after Moyes addressed the team following a 1-1 draw against AFC Bournemouth. Fornals had hoped to be part of the squad for the match, but despite his desire to help the team one last time, the club decided not to include him. Still, he remained with the team throughout the day, soaking in the atmosphere of the stadium and his teammates.
“I was in the stadium with the team for that match. I asked Moyes if he could put me in the squad because I wanted to help until the last second. I told him, ‘If you need me, I am ready’. But the club decided no,” Fornals recalled.
After the game, the team gathered in the dressing room, and it was then that Moyes delivered a speech thanking Fornals for his service to the club. The manager spoke of his admiration for the player, expressing his pride in what Fornals had achieved during his time at West Ham. The speech, delivered in front of the entire squad, was filled with genuine emotion and left Fornals deeply moved.
“I recorded a video expressing my appreciation to everyone who supported me and my family. I was really emotional because the manager did a beautiful speech about me in front of everyone. It’s something I will never forget. The manager didn’t want me to leave but knew I wanted to play.”
Fornals acknowledged that while Moyes had not been able to give him regular playing time in the final months, the speech made him realize how much the manager appreciated him—not just as a player, but as a person.
“There’s some moments where words are not needed – I started crying. All my teammates hugged me and started singing my chant. I was sad when I left the London Stadium.”
A Legacy at West Ham United
During his time at West Ham, Fornals became a fan favorite for his tireless work ethic and his contributions on the field. His versatility in midfield, along with his technical ability, made him an important part of the squad. His love for the club was evident in every performance, and it was reciprocated by both his teammates and the supporters.
Even after leaving for Real Betis, Fornals continues to hold West Ham close to his heart. He shared that his former teammates sang his chant—familiar to fans who filled the stands at the London Stadium—at his wedding in Spain, cementing his bond with the club and its players.
Fornals’ departure was a loss for West Ham, but his influence on the club remains. Players like him epitomize the David Moyes era, characterized by hard work, determination, and a commitment to the team. Under Moyes, West Ham achieved notable success, and Fornals played a significant role in those achievements.
Still Supporting West Ham from Afar
Although Fornals has now returned to Spain to continue his career with Real Betis, his connection to West Ham remains strong. In fact, he has been instrumental in helping the club attract new talent. Fornals revealed that he recommended West Ham to fellow Spanish players Carlos Soler and Guido Rodriguez, encouraging them to consider a move to East London. His praise for the club and its environment shows just how much he cherished his time at West Ham, even after his departure.
Fornals also made it clear that he could never envision playing for another English team, even if it were one of the Premier League’s biggest clubs, like Manchester United or Manchester City. His loyalty to West Ham is unwavering, and his time in England will always be associated with the claret and blue of the Hammers.
David Moyes and the Players Who Defined His Era
Fornals’ emotional exit is a testament to the deep bonds that have been formed within the West Ham squad under Moyes’ leadership. The Scottish manager, known for his no-nonsense approach and emphasis on hard work, has cultivated a team that is greater than the sum of its parts. Players like Fornals, who gave everything for the badge, embody the spirit that Moyes has instilled in the team.
Moyes’ reign at West Ham has been marked by steady improvement and moments of triumph, including their return to European competition. While the club has seen its fair share of challenges, the loyalty and dedication of players like Fornals have helped West Ham maintain its status as one of the Premier League’s most resilient sides.
As West Ham continues to evolve, the contributions of players like Fornals will not be forgotten. His departure may mark the end of his time at the club, but the memories and relationships he forged will remain. The speech that brought Fornals to tears is just one example of the respect and admiration that exists between him and the West Ham family.
Conclusion
Pablo Fornals’ departure from West Ham United was a bittersweet moment, marked by an emotional farewell speech from David Moyes and an outpouring of love from his teammates. After more than 200 appearances and countless contributions to the club’s success, Fornals left for Real Betis with a heavy heart but with fond memories of his time in East London.
His story is a reminder of the strong bonds that can form between a player, a club, and its fans. Fornals’ loyalty to West Ham, even after his departure, speaks volumes about the club’s culture and the leadership of David Moyes. As West Ham looks to the future, the legacy of players like Fornals will continue to inspire the next generation of Hammers.
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