After enduring a tough streak without victories that left them looking worn and weary, West Ham United have staged a remarkable turnaround, displaying their championship mettle by securing resounding wins against Brentford and Everton in the Premier League.
Is the crisis over? Absolutely. With the season heading into its critical phase, West Ham finds itself in an enviable position, boasting a skilled roster and under the guidance of David Moyes, who has been the architect of the team’s success in recent times.
Despite the departure of Declan Rice in the summer, West Ham’s strategic reinvestment has significantly elevated their domestic performance from the previous season, propelling them into the last 16 of the Europa League.
The club’s recent acquisitions have all proven to be astute, underscoring Moyes’ success in the transfer market as a key factor behind his achievements at the London Stadium.
However, not all of Moyes’ transfer decisions have been flawless, with the signing of Nikola Vlasic perhaps representing the low point in the club’s recent transfer dealings.
West Ham brought Vlasic aboard from CSKA Moscow in August 2021 for an upfront payment of £27m, potentially rising to £35m with add-ons.
At 23 years old, the Croatian international, who had a previous stint in the Premier League with Everton that didn’t pan out as hoped, was eager for another opportunity in the league.
Vlasic’s signing dashed any lingering hopes of Jesse Lingard making a permanent move to West Ham after a successful loan spell, yet with Vlasic’s impressive track record in Russia, there was optimism he could elevate the Hammers to new heights.
Yet, Vlasic’s time at West Ham was a disappointment.
Participating in 31 games for the club, Vlasic scored only once and provided two assists, mainly operating from the left wing. He was criticized for his lackluster performance, particularly highlighted by The Athletic’s Roshane Thomas for being “wasteful”.
Vlasic’s stats did little to justify his place in the team or his significant salary of £70k per week—surpassing that of key players like Rice and Jarrod Bowen at the time.
Reflecting on Rice’s subsequent success and pivotal role at West Ham, which included winning back-to-back Player of the Year awards and leading to a major transfer that significantly boosted Moyes’ transfer funds last summer, Vlasic’s acquisition stands out as a rare misstep in Moyes’ otherwise commendable tenure.
