Behind-the-scenes figure exits West Ham as announcement made

West Ham United's Academy of Football has been weakened this week.

There are few youth systems in English football that can rival what West Ham do at Chadwell Heath.

A constant foundry of quality young talent, so many top players have emerged from the Hammers' production line.

Nuno Espirito Santo has got a handful of them in his Irons first-team group this season too.

Lewis Orford, Ollie Scarles, Josh Ajala and Airidas Golambeckis have all played first-team minutes this term.

A big part of any successful academy is the coaching within it, but another huge element of lies with those who identify the talent in the first place.

Which West Ham academy scout is leaving the club?

In order to keep that stream of top young players flowing through the academy, you need top youth scouts.

Their job is to spot talent before anyone else and ahead of rival team, paving the way for the player to sign with their club.

You don't have as prolific an academy system as West Ham do without having youth scouts who are excellent at their jobs.

However, taking to his Instagram account on Wednesday, Ramin Keshavarz has announced that he's leaving his role as an academy scout with West Ham.

"After more than three special years at West Ham United, it’s time to say goodbye with a grateful heart," he said.

"This hasn’t been an easy decision, but sometimes new opportunities arise and new challenges come along that you feel ready to embrace.

"Thank you to everyone at the club for the trust, support, and unforgettable memories. It has been a real honour to be part of this journey.

"I leave with great affection, respect, and gratitude. West Ham will always hold a special place in my heart."

So, how are West Ham United's Under-21s and U-18s sides faring so far this season?

Where are West Ham's U-21s in Premier League 2?

West Ham's U-21 squad have been on a slight slump in Premier League 2 as of late.

After finishing second in 2023-24 and fourth in 2024-25, they could only muster a 13th-placed finish in 2025-26.

This season hasn't gotten off to a great start either, with the side sitting 19th of 31, with just the one win from their opening five matches.

Burnley come to Rush Green on Friday evening for a 7pm kick-off, with the U-21s looking to respond after a 4-2 defeat to Norwich last time out.

As for the U-18s, they are faring a lot better, as the young Irons squad sits fifth in the U-18 Premier League South table.

They've won four of their first seven games, and have a mouth-watering London derby away at Tottenham this Sunday.