Max Kilman faces inevitable West Ham exit after what Nuno has done
Max Kilman’s time at West Ham could be coming to an end this summer, or so we can hope.
West Ham’s current predicament is down to a number of factors, so to blame Kilman would be harsh and remarkably misjudged.
However, the former Wolves star has had yet another atrocious campaign, and his defensive frailties certainly contributed to them having the worst defensive record in the Premier League up until recently.
The Hammers have conceded 54 goals so far this season, with 10 games still to be played, but with what Nuno Espirito Santo has done, that record may improve, and it may also spell the end for Kilman’s time at the London Stadium.
Max Kilman decision speaks volumes about his West Ham future
Kilman has made 21 appearances for West Ham, which, in all honesty, is 21 more than he should have been afforded after the campaign he had last time out.
But that’s a story for a different day.
Of those league appearances, the 28-year-old has started 17 times, but what is more important to note is that he hasn’t started a league game under Nuno since the Hammers suffered a 3-0 defeat to Wolves back at the start of January.
Surprisingly (not), the Irons have started to look far more resolute defensively since he was dropped from the side, and that is demonstrated by the below Sofascore graphic.
West Ham have actually picked up more points with him in the team, but their defensive record without him is far superior.
The Hammers have over halved the chances created against them when he has been out of the team, while also averaging 0.02 fewer goals conceded per game.
West Ham must part ways with Kilman this summer
Kilman has run his race at West Ham, and regardless of what happens in the relegation battle, he can’t be afforded another season here.
A move away in the summer would benefit all parties, and with Nuno’s recent decision to axe him from the starting 11, it would be fair to assume that he has the same mindset.
West Ham paid a fee in the region of £40million to sign him from Wolves back in 2024, and based on his recent performances, they would do well to get even half of that money back from his exit.
The 28-year-old will still have five years left on his contract come the end of the campaign, which may actually harm the Irons more than it would benefit them.
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