Aaron Wan-Bissaka breaks silence on quitting Man Utd as West Ham transfer confirmed | Football | Sport
Aaron Wan-Bissaka has said it was a “no brainer” to join West Ham after sealing his move from Manchester United. The right-back, 26, has joined the Hammers on a seven-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
“It was a no brainer for me to join West Ham – I’m excited and happy to be here,” he said.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be back in London, and I’m excited for what’s coming. I was born here, so I know the ins and outs of London, which plays a big part in my life, so to be back playing in this city means a lot to me.”
Wan-Bissaka came through the ranks at Crystal Palace before making his £50million move to United in 2019. He played in both a League Cup and FA Cup final win for the club, but found his first team opportunities limited last season.
“I’m happy to be here, am grateful for the warm welcome, and I am excited to be playing for the club and will give it my all,” he added. “I can’t wait to get on the pitch, get to know the players, and push on from there.
“I see a team that is in it together, that will push each other to win, and a group that has got each others’ backs through thick and thin. So being part of that and having that insurance helps a lot when you are surrounded by a good squad.”
Wan-Bissaka is Julen Lopetegui’s eighth signing of the summer. And technical director Tim Steidten implied his ability to play both in defence and in a more advanced role makes him a major addition.
“I am delighted we’ve been able to get the deal to sign Aaron over the line,” said Steidten. “He’s exactly the type of player we’re looking to attract to this Club in the prime years of his career.
“He’s an incredibly talented defender who we rate very highly – superb in one-on-one situations. He’s versatile too, which is clearly another positive. He’s played over 170 Premier League games during his career – he knows the division inside-out.”
Wan-Bissaka will take the No.29 shirt, and follows Crysencio Summerville, Niclas Fullkrug, Guido Rodriguez, Luis Guilherme, Wes Foderingham, Maximilian Kilman, and Jen-Clair Todibo through the doors at the London Stadium this summer. And Steidten added it was another statement of intent from the club.
“I’d like to personally thank the board for their continued backing to bring players of such quality to West Ham,” he added. It’s a really exciting time for us as we prepare for the start of the new season this weekend.”
