Former Croatia manager and all-around fan favorite Slaven Bilić is heading into his third season as manager at West Ham United this weekend when the English Premier League kicks off. West Ham will start their campaign on the road Sunday when they face Jose Mourinho and Manchester United at Old Trafford.
In Bilić’s inaugural season at the helm, the Hammers overachieved, finishing 7th in England, only four points behind a Champions League berth. However, the wheels came off the wagon last year with West Ham struggling and star player Dimitri Payet unhappy. Although West Ham struggled the entire season and flirted with relegation after the new year, they finished a respectable 11th in England.
Bilić cannot afford another season like that in London. And that’s why he brought in reinforcements. After losing Frenchman Dimitri Payet in the most recent winter transfer window, Bilić bolstered his club with veterans. He brought in two former Manchester City players in goalie Joe Hart and defender Pablo Zabaleta. 33 year-old Portuguese defender Jose Fonte joined the club earlier in the year after being a bull on defense for Southampton. And let’s not forget the signing of Mexican legend Chicharito to West Ham who will pair up with an aging, yet resourceful, And Carroll up top.
There’s an energy around this West Ham club this year, not just with Bilić on the sidelines, but with their signings. It’s not unreasonable to see this side finish as high as 5th or 6th this season. If not, the critics will be knocking.
But it’s still my firm belief that Bilić will once again manage the Croatian national team…one day. Until then, how far can he take this West Ham United club?
Carefree where ever we may be, We are the famous CFC.
Arnautovic as well
The team is full of mid tier players lanzini ayew and co
Europa league would be a great achievement for them