Credit: Imago

Jacob Raw

Tue 21 April 2026 8:10, UK

West Ham United boss Nuno Espirito Santo may have to give in on his persistence with Pablo after yet another poor display from the striker against Crystal Palace.

The Hammers looked fairly toothless in the 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park, and most half-chances fell to the feet of Taty Castellanos.

Though the Argentine is no Erling Haaland, he’s certainly proving to be much more dangerous than Pablo, who surely needs to be dropped in the next game against Everton.

Nuno has built a solid defensive foundation since arriving in E20, but attack is still something he needs to work on.

Pablo was a huge reason for West Ham not scoring against Palace, as he took up a crucial spot in the final third.

Pablo made West Ham look a 10-man team vs Crystal Palace

Pablo has raised early concerns at West Ham as his eight-figure move to the London Stadium looks to be only going in one direction as of now.

If the Hammers were to go down, it would be interesting to see what the club would do with the forward in the summer, who clearly offers no authority in the position behind Castellanos.

It’s not even the fact that he’s missing big chances, but more so that the ball never seems to find him, which is more reflective of his game.

Against Crystal Palace, Pablo recorded a 6.4 FotMob rating, which was worse than any other West Ham player who started.

The Brazilian had 35 touches, recorded a 0 per cent shot accuracy, and lost nine of his duels. He managed to make just 14 out of a 23 attempted passes, while having just six touches inside the hosts’ box.

It’s truly a mystery as to how he is still starting games considering what’s at stake, and it’s now 11 games in total that the 22-year-old has failed to score in since joining.

The Irons look a man down in attack when Pablo is starting, as others like Callum Wilson will surely be in Nuno’s thoughts now.

Pablo exit is needed regardless of relegation

Regardless of which division West Ham find themselves in next season, Pablo needs to leave.

The terms of his exit would need to be carefully thought about, as an early sale could cut losses that may only multiply with time.

However, a loan would probably be the most sensible move, as the number nine still has time to improve.

The verdict right now is that he’s nowhere near ready for Premier League football, and maybe a temporary move away from the English game would do him well.