West Ham United is delighted to announce that Academy midfielder Aaron Kamara has signed his first professional contract with the Club.
Just days after helping the U18s to qualify for the Premier League Cup semi-finals with a penalty shootout victory over Manchester United, Kamara put pen to paper at the Chadwell Heath Academy Training Ground.
“This week has been unreal,” he said. “The quarter-final was a very good game. I enjoyed it a lot and had faith we’d go through even though Manchester United were in really good form. Signing my first professional contract is the icing on the cake. It’s a dream come true for every footballer.”
Having begun his footballing journey at his local team Peckham Town, Kamara was scouted by West Ham United during his time at Southend United’s Academy. Following a successful trial period, he joined the Hammers at U14 level, continuing his development at Chadwell Heath before signing a full-time scholarship last summer.
“I’m delighted because not many people from where I am from get this opportunity, so I just want to take it with both hands and thank West Ham United for giving me the chance to showcase myself.
“A huge thanks also goes to my parents, for their support and for helping me get from south London all the way to Southend and then here. Without them, my journey up until now wouldn’t be possible.”
A midfielder throughout his formative years, the 17-year-old has shown great versatility for Lauris Coggin’s U18s this season, having been deployed in every position across the backline - sometimes in the same game - as well as his preferred defensive midfield role.
West Ham United Academy Manager Kenny Brown praised Kamara’s adaptability and strong character, while highlighting his potential for further development.
“What stands out with Aaron is his versatility,” said Brown. “He came in as a central midfield player, but he’s played right-back, left-back, centre-half, sometimes in the same game. What we like about him is that he does a great job wherever he plays, and he understands the different requirements of each position.
“He’s well liked in the dressing room, very humble, and very respectful. There is a lot of development to come for him. He’s in a really good place right now, and next year will be a very important one. He’ll be a prominent figure with the U18s, and hopefully we’ll see him with the U21s as well.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Aaron on signing his first professional contract and wish him every success in Claret and Blue.
