Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sat 4 April 2026 15:10, UK

Adama Traore’s contract has an option to extend his West Ham United spell by a year after this season, but Nuno Espirito Santo‘s team selection against Leeds United will be telling.

Traore has struggled to make headway in the pecking order since his winter window arrival and has more or less been just an added name for the bench.

After previously working under Nuno at Wolves, hope was that the Spaniard could recapture his former glory.

As it stands, Traore’s short-term deal at London Stadium is set to expire at the end of the season.

Ahead of West Ham versus Leeds, the 30-year-old could get an answer over the uncertainty of his future based on Nuno’s decision-making.

Why Adama Traore could learn his West Ham future vs Leeds

With Crysencio Summerville a doubt to face Leeds, the Irons have a lack of wingers at their disposal.

While Traore is an option, Nuno has previously opted to start Pablo out on the wing, snubbing the Spaniard.

Since joining the Hammers, Traore has yet to start in Premier League action, with his only appearances from the first whistle coming against Burton Albion and Brentford in the FA Cup.

The Spanish winger has failed to impress with zero goal involvements recorded for the E20 outfit.

Additionally, over his nine appearances for West Ham in all competitions, he has only recorded two chances created.

Both of which came against League One side Burton Albion.

Overall, he has been quite a poor signing, and with a shortage of wingers for West Ham, if Traore is snubbed for the starting lineup again, that will likely signal his one-year option will not be triggered.

The only outcome where West Ham should keep Adama Traore

If West Ham remain in the Premier League, it would be incredibly difficult to argue as to why he should remain at London Stadium.

At this level, consistent performances, output and smart decision-making are all invaluable and non-negotiable traits. Three qualities Traore has struggled to show.

However, if the Hammers do get relegated, Traore could be a useful player for their Championship campaign, with the picture changing drastically.

While he may not be good enough at the Premier League level, the drop of quality in England’s second tier could revitalise the Spaniard.

His pace, power and physique in a league as physical and tough as the Championship might be a combination worth trying, with more space likely to be open for the winger to run into.