Emerson makes ‘fascinating’ admission on why he signed for West Ham United
Emerson Palmieri has revealed that he “didn’t think twice” before making the move from Chelsea to West Ham in August 2022.
Speaking to ESPN on Thursday (30 November), the 29-year-old said his motivation to return to the “fascinating” Premier League was “very clear” after spending the previous year on loan with Lyon.
The Italy international added that joining a club like the Hammers was “very rewarding” for him after nailing down the position as first-choice left-back at the London Stadium.
“The motivation to return to the Premier League was very clear because it is the best league in the world, a fascinating competition,” said Emerson.
“When I heard about the interest, I didn’t think twice. And, of course, coming to a club the size of West Ham was a very rewarding thing for me.”
Under the radar
The performances of Emerson have largely gone under the radar at West Ham since he arrived in East London 15 months ago.
After forcing his way into the starting lineup towards the back end of last season, he has made 18 appearances already during this campaign.
The Italian has kept Hammers stalwart Aaron Cresswell out of the side, who has been forced to settle for a bit-part role whenever his fellow left-back isn’t available.
That situation looks unlikely to change any time soon after Emerson has been pretty solid this season, providing width down the left and plenty of experience defensively.
It will be nice for the Hammers fans to hear that he jumped at the chance to join the club and will be looking for him to remain consistent throughout the rest of this campaign.
In other West Ham news, a BBC journalist has detailed what type of player the Hammers need to sign in January.