Emeka Adiele left West Ham United and completed a permanent move to FC Utrecht on winter deadline day.
The 18-year-old climbed through the ranks of West Ham’s youth system. He left without making a senior debut for the Hammers.
Nuno Espírito Santo has El Hadji Malick Diouf and Oliver Scarles as the recognised left-backs at West Ham. This made it challenging for Adiele to get minutes with the first team.
Adiele’s contract at West Ham was set to expire in June, and his situation at the London club had caught the attention of others. De Telegraaf recently reported Utrecht beat Juventus and Borussia Dortmund to sign the England U18 international.
The fullback has been speaking to his new club’s official channels and Utrecht Fans have relayed his comments. The youngster has confirmed he had several options to leave the Premier League side.
He explained the decision to join Utrecht over other clubs and why he couldn’t reject them.
West Ham exit choice given thought
“I had a few options, of course, but I think FC Utrecht is the best fit for me. Everything they told me and what the club stands for, I wanted to be a part of. I couldn’t say no,” he said.
“It was just different from the other clubs. They wanted to do everything they could to get me and really had faith in me. More than other clubs.”
Adiele has also talked about Jarrod Bowen’s influence at the London club.
Jarrod Bowen an example to follow
“I’ve never taken an opportunity for granted. Every time I trained, with or without the older players, I just made sure I played to the best of my ability,” Adiele explained.
“I’ve learned a lot, especially from the senior players. Who was the leader there? Jarrod Bowen. Everyone looks up to him. He’s a leader on and off the pitch. Hopefully, I can bring my experience from West Ham and contribute here.”