With Pellegrini in, it is David Moyes’ three centre-back system out, and I for one am happy about that! But who will be West Ham’s centre back pairing?
West Ham’s centre-back ranks are a bit thin, however the level of competition and skill between the players that make up the trio of defenders is impressive and positive for Hammers’ fans to get excited about. So who is the odd man out of Angelo Ogbonna, Issa Diop, and Fabian Balbuena?
First, let’s understand why there are only three defenders to choose from. Reece Burke has moved to Hull City on a permanent deal, Reece Oxford’s terrible attitude and poor performances for Pellegrini have him on the verge of returning to Germany on a permanent basis, Declan Rice is a defensive midfielder now, James Collins’ contract has expired and he was not offered a new deal, and Winston Reid is out longterm with a re-aggravated injury that was sustained last season. And exhale.
Despite that turnover, the one name that remains is Angelo Ogbonna. Since returning from his knee injury for the 2017/18 season Ogbonna has been tremendous for West Ham. Since October 28th Ogbonna has only missed one match and played a major role in the successful relegation battle West Ham found themselves in last season. He was a constant all season and made lots of saves as exceptional as this:
The Italian international is a lock based off his strong play last season, Premier League experience, and the impression he’s made on his new manager. It is a two horse race for the last remaining spot and it may be neck and neck all season.
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New Kids on the Block
That means that newcomers Issa Diop and Fabian Balbuena will duke it out to line up beside Ogbonna for West Ham. Based off of preseason minutes it would appear that former Corinthians defender Fabian Balbuena has the lead on the position. He has been poised on the ball and hasn’t panicked when pressured. For just £3.5 million Balbuena could be a steal based off of his showings so far.
Balbuena has shown his elite decision making and passing skills in preseason, including a 40/40 performance against Aston Villa. The Paraguayan centre-back has fit in without any major issues, acclimating to English and European football without any major hiccups. He should be starting for West Ham beside Ogbonna come Liverpool away.
Despite being third in the pecking order the U-21 captain of France, Issa Diop, will be in the first man up should there be an injury or minor slip up by one of the starters. His massive 6’4″ frame makes him a menace in the air on both sides of the ball, while his developing technical skills are only improving over time.
When bought for £22 million he was West Ham’s transfer fee record setter and for good reason. Seen as one of Europe’s top defensive prospects Diop is as more so a player for the years to come than he is for this season. As mentioned before, however, should there be an opportunity Diop will have the opportunity to stake his claim immediately.
West Ham is about one centre-back away from being set for the season and apparently, the hunt is on for Pellegrini and Husillos. Rumors are swirling around about who could join the squad, but with the three solid defenders the team has at their disposal, the recruits will likely be small money transfers to provide depth to the team.
So there it is Ogbonna and Balbuena to start with Diop pressuring for a spot. Competition is always good and Diop will likely be keeping his defensive teammates motivated to keep their form all season.