West Ham United striker, Gianluca Scamacca, left the London Stadium ahead of the crucial relegation battle against Southampton in the Premier League due to a knee injury. The Italian international returned from Italy with the injury, and his availability for the match was already in doubt. What exactly happened is unclear, but there are speculations that he may have failed a fitness test or simply wasn’t risked by West Ham.
The Relegation Battle Against Southampton
West Ham United is facing a crucial relegation battle against Southampton in the Premier League. This game is expected to be decided by small margins, and manager David Moyes needs all his top players to be fit during the season’s run-in. Unfortunately, Scamacca’s absence could be a blow to their chances of survival.
Moyes’ Struggle to Use a True Number 9 and Offensive-minded Players
West Ham signed Gianluca Scamacca as a replacement for Sebastian Haller, who they sold to Ajax Amsterdam. However, their fan base is split on Scamacca’s performance and if he is just a one-year wonder. Moyes has been struggling to figure out how to use true number 9’s in his offensive system or lack thereof. Captain Declan Rice has questioned the offense and lack of support for the strikers. Offensive-minded players such as Felipe Anderson and Said Benrahma have also struggled under Moyes.
There have been criticisms about Moyes’ tactics being outdated and not working in the Premier League. In addition, he rarely makes in-match adjustments when West Ham are down against strong oppositions. As they struggle to compete against teams in the bottom half of the Premier League, there is immense pressure on Moyes to unlock Scamacca’s potential.
West Ham Taking Steps to Replace Scamacca with Mateo Retegui
Scamacca, a £35.5m signing from Sassuolo, has failed to perform in England, scoring only three goals in 16 league appearances. As such, West Ham must first line up a direct replacement before selling Scamacca, and Mateo Retegui has emerged as a potential candidate.
Retegui, an Italy international, scored on his debut against England and also scored against Malta. West Ham has reportedly asked for information on Retegui, who is currently on loan at Tigre from Boca Juniors. Rategui’s transfer value is around €15m-€20m, which could quickly rise if he continues to score regularly.
West Ham’s greater financial power compared to European rivals could be decisive in securing Retegui’s transfer. With Scamacca out injured and Moyes struggling to get his offensive system to work consistently, the addition of Retegui could well be the boost they need to get back on track for survival this season.
In conclusion, Gianluca Scamacca’s knee injury is indeed a blow to West Ham United’s chances of survival this season. However, with Moyes seeking new options and taking steps to acquire talented players like Mateo Retegui, the club is still showing its resolve in staying competitive in such a fierce relegation battle.
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