**West Ham United have been dealt a massive blow ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth at London Stadium.**
Hammers manager Nuno Espirito Santo has confirmed (via [The Athletic](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7049720/2026/02/18/pablo-felipe-west-ham-injury/)) that Brazilian striker Pablo Felipe is “going to be out for a while” after picking up a calf injury.
West Ham paid €20 million (£17.4m) to sign Pablo from Gil Vicente during the winter transfer window.
Before moving to East London, the 22-year-old striker had scored 10 goals in 13 games for Gil Vicente in the Portuguese top flight. However, he has failed to replicate that form in England.
Pablo has featured six times across the Premier League and FA Cup since joining West Ham.
However, he has yet to deliver a single goal contribution or a man-of-the-match award in 328 minutes of first-team football under Nuno.
Despite seemingly failing to live up to expectations, Pablo’s setback is a massive blow for West Ham.
The young striker has made a strong impression at the London Stadium, and many believe it’s only a matter of time until he opens his goalscoring account in West Ham colours.
Pablo has earned the respect of his teammates and manager for his relentless work rate.
He signed a four-and-a-half-year contract, with the option of an extra year. But from his first outing, it was clear he was ready to fight for the badge.
Pablo is a relentless pressing machine, and his energy challenges his teammates to give 100%.
A striker’s primary objective is to put the ball in the back of the net, but Pablo’s vast skill set has made him an invaluable figure in West Ham’s frontline.
The Brazilian chases defenders, presses goalkeepers, and refuses to give up on loose balls. He may not yet look like a polished striker, but his hunger has quickly made him a favourite among supporters.
West Ham will need Callum Wilson to step up in Pablo’s absence, even though [the Englishman was linked with a mid-season exit last month](https://westhamblog.co.uk/everton-considering-move-for-west-ham-striker-callum-wilson/).