Manuel Pellegrini has promised to bring a new brand of football to West Ham this season, so could the Chilean’s arrival bring the best out of Manuel Lanzini?
2017/18 was a difficult season at West Ham for several reasons, but in and amongst the manager tension, fan strife and owner troubles, the injury to Manuel Lanzini was undoubtedly a huge factor in the Hammers’ struggles.
The Hammers lost the little Argentine at a crucial stage in the season, and despite starting just 23 of 38 Premier League games, he still managed five goals and six assists this season.
Lanzini was at his brilliant best in Argentina’s friendly win this week, as the 25 year-old played in a deeper midfield position than he is used to in the 4-0 win over Haiti.
He did not directly contribute to the goals, but linked defence and attack wonderfully, exhibiting exactly the kind of swagger and confidence on the ball that West Ham fans have become so used to seeing from him.
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Under Pellegrini’s free flowing style next season, Lanzini could be the veteran manager’s most important player. Pellegrini likes a 4-4-2 formation, but it becomes more of a 4-2-2-2 when attacking, and Lanzini will flourish roaming in one of those two spots behind the strikers.
Only five players registered both ten goals and ten assists in the Premier League this season, and Lanzini can join this elite club next season.
There has been plenty of talk about Marko Arnautovic amidst the Austrian’s links to Manchester United, but Lanzini could just be the most important Hammer under Pellegrini.
So, West Ham fans, do you think Pellegrini will get the best out of Lanzini next season? Let us know your thoughts by voting in the poll below…
