Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Tue 17 March 2026 8:10, UK

Adama Traore joined West Ham United in the winter transfer window, but the move continues to make little sense.

The Spanish winger has not had much impact for the E20 outfit after making the switch across London from Fulham.

Traore’s previous relationship with Nuno Espirito Santo had provided hope that he could get the best out of the famously pacey winger.

However, that has been far from the case, and the Portuguese manager’s decision in West Ham’s game against Manchester City only furthered doubts over what the move had hoped to bring.

Why Adama Traore’s snub against Manchester City spoke volumes

With Crysencio Summerville out injured, the natural instinct was to think that Traore would be placed out in the wide positions.

However, Nuno had decided against utilising the winter signing and instead played Pablo in that role against Pep Guardiola’s side.

It was a choice that ultimately highlighted that Traore has done little to gain the trust of his former Wolves manager, and the 30-year-old is still chasing his first start in the Premier League for the Hammers.

Since joining West Ham, Traore has only contributed to one goal – an assist in the FA Cup win against Brentford, as seen in the Sofascore graphic below, with few key passes or crosses in the final third.

Additionally, when Traore did come on for the Irons against Manchester City, he did very little.

The winger in his 15-minute cameo took just three touches, completed one unsuccessful pass and lost the only duel he was involved in.

While he had just three touches, he lost the ball twice in that short spell too, as per Sofascore. When it comes to impact subs, Traore has been the complete opposite of the definition.

Although West Ham’s survival odds have been boosted after Man City draw, Traore’s reputation at London Stadium certainly has not.

What is Adama’s contract situation at West Ham?

When you look at the finances involved, you can understand why a risk was taken on Traore. However, that does not change the fact it has been a poor signing on the pitch.

The Spaniard signed a short-term deal until the end of this season, but the Irons do have the option to extend his contract for one year.

• Traore joined West Ham until June 2026 from Fulham in a deal worth up to £2million
• West Ham retain an option to extend the deal until 2027
• The Spaniard is earning £70,000 per week in E20

As it stands, that option must not be taken up, as the East London outfit could do with someone that can offer more impact.

Traore has failed to produce what was expected of him, and from the manager’s decision-making, Nuno seems to agree.