2. Lack of a Leader
West Ham is a big club and it's core was built with leadership and club values. Players like Sir Bobby Moore and Mark Noble have left their legacies at the club after leading the Hammers to huge successes in its storied history.
After Mark Noble announced his retirement in 2022 after 20 years at the club, a young Declan Rice was viewed as the leader of this new Hammers squad. However, his £105 million move to Premier League rivals Arsenal left West Ham without a true mascot of the team.
This translated onto the pitch as well with West Ham failing to capitalise on their early season form towards the latter half of 2023/24 season which made them finish ninth in the league last season. Now, with Max Kilman's signing this void can be filled.
Captaining Wolves, the Englishman has shown relentless spirit to motivate the team in crucial situations. Thus, a leader like him can be the difference in West Ham aiming for a top six spot this season.