**The 2025/26 season has been an abysmal campaign for West Ham. But despite that, their recruitment in the summer window has generally proven to be good value for money.**
Of course, Mateus Fernandes has been a revelation, while the free transfers of Callum Wilson and Kyle Walker-Peters have proven to be shrewd acquisitions.
First through the door last summer was El Hadji Malick Diouf. The 20-year-old had big shoes to fill following the departure of Emerson in August, but he has shown great promise for the Irons.
The Senegalese international is tidy on the ball, brimming with energy, and possesses a wonderful left foot that has secured him four assists in the Premier League this season — no defender has more in 2025/26.
However, one of Diouf’s biggest qualities is his character. The Irons’ No.12 consistently shows passion on the pitch — while others celebrate goals, Diouf celebrates winning headers and making vital interceptions.
Despite how poor West Ham’s season has been, the left-back is often pictured with a smile on his face and frequently appears to be in high spirits.
That was evident once again in a recent West Ham training video at Rush Green. During a shooting drill, Diouf displayed real proficiency in front of goal. After each converted strike, the full-back wheeled away in celebration, clearly delighted to have scored.
At the end of the drill, Diouf’s team — which consisted of himself, Fernandes and Adama Traoré — emerged victorious, with the trio celebrating as if they had just won a trophy.
West Ham’s recent upturn in form has coincided with the cultivation of an atmosphere that appears free, passionate and full of excitement for the game.
This short video clip was a shining example of how the mood around the squad has changed over the past month — and with a tough run-in ahead, the group’s current camaraderie could prove to be a huge factor in the fight for survival this season.