Nayef Aguerd lost prominence at West Ham United in the second half of last season under David Moyes’ orders. Julen Lopetegui replaced Moyes in the summer and the defender’s situation didn’t improve under the Spaniard.
On summer deadline day, West Ham allowed the defender to join Real Sociedad on a loan deal.
The centre-back made 14 league appearances and has impressed for the Spanish club, who currently have the best defence [along with Atlético Madrid] record in La Liga.
Aguerd has become a fan favourite at Real Sociedad and Marca point that out when having a chat with him. The newspaper asked for his views after letting him know the supporters want to see him at the club beyond this season.
La Real don’t have an option or obligation to buy the 28-year-old and as it stands, he has to return to West Ham. The Morocco international’s contract at the Premier League side lasts until 2027 and he’s unsure where his long-term future lies.
“I’m not going to lie. I came here to find my best level again, first of all, because I wasn’t playing at West Ham and I want to enjoy every moment here, as I am doing,” he said.
“I still have two years left on my contract with West Ham, but now I’m only thinking about helping Real go as far as possible in the three competitions and then there will be time to think about the future.”
“I don’t know if I’ll have to go back, I don’t know if I’ll stay here, I don’t know if I’ll go anywhere else, it’s not in my hands.”
The West Ham owned player was linked to Atlético Madrid and Villarreal and would have received other offers. Marca point this out and then ask why he decided to join La Real in the summer.
“I came to Real because of the conversation I had with Imanol [Alguacil],” Aguerd explained.
“For me, as a footballer, the coach’s trust is very important and Imanol’s call changed everything, I saw him willing to help me, I thought I could also help the team, and it was clear to me.”