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Aasif Rahman
Thu 7 August 2025 9:50, UK
Kyle Walker-Peters joined Nicolas Jackson and West Ham players in reacting to a new teammate’s message following his standout performance.
After a disappointing season that saw the club finish 14th and part ways with Julen Lopetegui after just 20 games, West Ham are looking to bounce back under Graham Potter.
The signs so far are encouraging as the Hammers have enjoyed a strong pre-season, picking up wins over Everton and Bournemouth in the Premier League Summer Series.
The board have backed Potter with fresh faces, with West Ham sealing deals for Callum Wilson and Walker-Peters to bolster the squad.
But it was fellow new arrival El Hadji Malick Diouf who stunned West Ham fans in his recent eye-catching performance, as well as delivering an assist against Bournemouth.
Following the game, Diouf shared a message on social media celebrating the start of his journey at the club, prompting responses from his new teammates.
After catching the eye in his first appearance for the club, Diouf took to Instagram as West Ham’s pre-season tour of the United States came to a close.
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He wrote: “Take the win to end the Premier League Summer Series in the US.
A very special thank you to the fans and to all the people who have made this visit so nice for us.
“Back to London, keep working!”
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The post earned plenty of attention, with Walker-Peters, Nayef Aguerd, and Chelsea striker—and fellow Senegal international—Nicolas Jackson all liking the post.
Diouf’s performance against Bournemouth was one of real intent.
As well as registering an assist, he completed three of his four attempted crosses and won four of his five ground duels, showing confidence on and off the ball.
Back in February, Football Insider reported that West Ham had growing concerns about Emerson’s performances, with the club identifying left-back as a key area to strengthen.
Now, with Diouf settling quickly and impressing early on, those concerns may be easing as the Hammers gear up for the new season.
Match stats vs Bournemouth El Hadji Malick DioufMinutes played89?Big chance created1Accurate crosses3/4Ground duels won4/5 El Hadji Malick Diouf vs Bournemouth.
While several new signings have already featured during pre-season, the Hammers are still looking to reinforce their squad, this time turning their focus to the goalkeeper position.
Football Insider revealed that West Ham have submitted an improved second bid for Botafogo shot-stopper John Victor and are growing in confidence that a deal can be secured.
The side opted against renewing Lukasz Fabianski’s contract earlier this summer, and view Victor as a potential option between the sticks.
However, competition is fierce.
Aston Villa, Wolves and Manchester United have all shown interest in the 29-year-old, meaning West Ham may need to act quickly to finalise the deal.
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