Can Soler make his Hammers debut against Fulham

On the final day of the summer transfer window, West Ham completed the signing of midfield transfer target Carlos Soler. Although it was a season long loan move instead of a permanent transfer, his addition brings more athleticism and creativity to Julen Lopetegui's squad. After the international break, West Ham will face Fulham, so it is highly likely that the 27-year-old can make his West Ham debut in the away fixture.

However, Carlos Soler hasn't played any match for his former club Paris Saint-Germain in the new season, thus, he isn't in a great match rhythm currently. Moreover, he didn't feature for the Spain national team in their UEFA Nations League group stage matches against Serbia and Switzerland in this international break as well. Thus, starting his first West Ham match two weeks after his arrival, and that to in a different league makes him less likely to be in the starting lineup for the game.

Can Soler make his Hammers debut against Fulham

Also, manager Julen Lopetegui has brought his new signings like Summerville, Fullkrug and Jean-Clair Todibo as second half substitutes initially and this can be the case with Soler as well. The Fulham match is a massive game for the Hammers, who faced two league defeats against Marco Silva's side last season. Moreover, Fulham are one of the most athletic teams and their high-pressing tactics have helped them become a good mid table side after they achieved promotion to the Premier League in 2022.

Also, West Ham will be without star striker Niclas Fullkrug, who was injured recently during the international break. Therefore, if Soler starts this match, he would have to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League as well as manager Julen Lopetegui's tactical setup quickly and if he struggles, it would be difficult for the Hammers to create chances going forward in this match. Hence, West Ham should bring Soler in the second half to adapt to the team gradually and also to stay match fit in order to become a starting midfielder for the Hammers after a few matches.