West Ham already have their El Hadji Malick Diouf replacement as ‘quality’ academy talent emerges
Emeka Adiele has emerged as a wonderful upcoming player in West Ham’s academy as the wing-back continues his flying start to the season.
The 18-year-old has quickly made a name for himself in the Under 21s and has picked up seven goal contributions in nine Premier League 2 matches.
This comes after Adiele signed a new West Ham contract last summer, and he has continued to develop into a top player.
Now, after picking up another assist against Liverpool at the start of the month, Nuno Espirito Santo has to start considering him for first-team selection after the international break.
Emeka Adiele can be El Hadji Malick Diouf’s replacement at West Ham
With rumours circulating that El Hadji Malick Diouf could soon be on his way out of West Ham, Nuno will need find himself looking for a full-back.
Given the form of Adiele, Nuno has to consider giving the youngster a shot in the Premier League.
- Adiele joined West Ham at Under 9s level
- He signed his first professional contract in July 2024
- Adiele has had an excellent start to the new season
The versatile 18-year-old who can play anywhere on the left flank is a natural wing-back.
Upon signing his professional contract on 31 July 2024, Academy Manager Kenny Brown labelled Adiele as “quality” to West Ham.
He said: “When I first came in, everyone was quite vocal about Emeka’s talent. He’s a very dynamic player, with plenty of quality and pace to match.
“I’ve been pleased with his development so far, and he had a really strong season last year, making his debut for the U21s and being a regular with the U18s. He’s a very well-liked member of the group and he’s also got an edge to him, which is great to see.
“It’s still very early in his footballing pathway, but he’s working with top staff, and the fact that he’s already establishing himself in the U21s squad as a second-year scholar is testament to his talent and attitude. The future is bright for him and our desire for him is to keep pushing him on.”
Nuno has already shown that he will give academy players a chance this season, with Callum Marshall making his West Ham debut earlier this campaign.
Now, after the international break, the same must happen for Adiele.
Adiele reaches double figures in goals and assists for our U21s this season 🔥
— West Ham United (@WestHam) November 3, 2025
All square at Wolves 🫡 pic.twitter.com/Y9eF7snpKk
If the Hammers can expose the youngster to the first team quickly, he could well be the perfect Diouf replacement, saving the East London club millions on a replacement.
The raw talent of Adiele also cannot be ignore, or other Premier League clubs may look to swoop in and unsettle the upcoming star.
What are Adiele’s stats this season?
According to Fotmob on 17 November, Adiele has had an excellent season to date.
His possession and defensive stats are particularly pleasing, which helps complement his attacking output.
| Emeka Adiele’s stats in the Premier League 2 this season | Per 90 minutes |
| Successful dribbles | 1.71 |
| Dribble success rate | 68.2% |
| Fouls won | 3.31 |
| Tackles | 2.28 |
| Duels won | 7.54 |
| Interceptions | 0.69 |
Even if Nuno does not give Adiele his debut in the coming weeks, a first-team appearance must be considered in the FA Cup if it is a favourable draw.
Utilising the academy is vital, and there is no reason why West Ham should not be taking advantage of his excellent form.
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