Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 7 May 2026 19:10, UK

Aaron Wan-Bissaka was on the West Ham United bench when they kicked off against Brentford last week, and he would have been thinking he could have helped prevent the 3-0 loss.

In his place was Kyle Walker-Peters, who has seemingly usurped the DR Congo international ever since the last international break ended.

The Hammers ace has effectively become an outcast at London Stadium after starting 10 of the last games in the Premier League before then.

However, with relegation staring the East Londoners in the face, it could be time for the African star to make his return.

Ahead of West Ham hosting Arsenal, Wan-Bissaka may be Nuno Espirito Santo’s best option at fullback.

Why Aaron Wan-Bissaka should return to West Ham lineup vs Arsenal

Wan-Bissaka’s recent omission from the Hammers starting lineup may be a punishment handed down by Nuno.

After the last international break, Wan-Bissaka failed to return back to London on time, missing a crucial FA Cup quarter-final tie by remaining in DR Congo to celebrate World Cup qualification.

However, ahead of facing Arsenal and with relegation on the line, Nuno must put any issues aside and make the correct decisions for West Ham.

The Gunners are an incredibly strong offensive side. They have scored the second most goals in the Premier League (67), have the third highest xG (60.6) and have also created the third-most big chances this season.

With Wan-Bissaka being known for his efficiency in one-versus-one defending, he could be the key for West Ham when they face Arsenal.

Most of their play does go down the wing, whether it is through Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard on the left or Noni Madueke or Bukayo Saka on the right.

El Hadji Malick Diouf will be the tougher afternoon

While Wan-Bissaka may be the better option on the right, the Hammers do not have much choice on the left.

In truth, it is unlikely that Oliver Scarles will be called upon ahead of El Hadji Malick Diouf.

The Senegalese defender has perhaps the toughest afternoon of any player on the pitch if Saka starts the game but he can be effective in attack as well.

The Arsenal winger has been involved in more Premier League goals against West Ham than any other opponent (five goals, four assists), with these nine involvements coming in his last eight appearances against the Irons.

West Ham need all three points but so do the Gunners who are chasing the Premier League title. The quality difference is undeniable, but if the E20 outfit prove they want survival more than Arsenal want the title, they could snatch a result.