Sofiane Feghouli has revealed that West Ham’s “fighting spirit” played a big part in his decision to sign for the club.
The Algeria international joined the Irons in June on a free transfer after seeing out his contract at Valencia.
In his time at the Mestalla, Feghouli developed a reputation as one of the top attacking midfielders in La Liga, outside of the Barcelona and Real Madrid duopoly, impressing with his pace and creativity.
His qualities led to links with a host of clubs from across Europe, including Manchester United, but West Ham successfully added him to their ranks as one of their ten signings of the current window, which may even be increased upon over the coming days.
And speaking to the Independent about his decision to relocate to the London Stadium, Feghouli lifted the lid on what made the Hammers so appealing to him:
“The London derbies were ones we had to watch,
“There was always an epic intensity to them. I was very impressed by West Ham’s fighting spirit. They never gave up.
“All of that helped to convince me that they were the team to join at this stage of my career.”
Feghouli’s West Ham now ply their trade at the London Stadium in the city’s Stratford district.
The 26-year-old has already scored at the iconic ground in Europa League qualification action, and says that the club’s new home is a fitting venue:
“The club has an incredible history, and the new Olympic Stadium is all part of it.
“Playing in front of 60,000 supporters, most of them West Ham fans, is a massive honour.
“I was delighted to score on my debut, and hope that there will be many more opportunities to do well.”
