Today marks a month since Aaron Wan-Bissaka completed his move to West Ham United, and at London Stadium this week he reflected on his spell in Claret and Blue so far, declaring he has settled into life in east London seamlessly.
It was in the days leading up to the start of the 2024/25 Premier League season that Wan-Bissaka joined the Hammers after a productive five-year spell at Manchester United, becoming our eighth signing of an exciting summer transfer window.
Having moved back to his native London, it’s no surprise that he has easily adapted to his new surroundings, with the 26-year-old impressing in each of his three appearances for the Club.
In conversation with award-winning rapper Guvna B, Wan-Bissaka explained how the welcoming nature of his West Ham teammates has helped him quickly feel at home, and discussed how he’s enjoyed linking up with the likes of Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus.
The defender has enjoyed a trophy-laden career so far, winning the FA Cup and EFL Cup with the Red Devils, and he believes he and his current teammates can clinch further silverware at West Ham this season…
Why did you decide to join West Ham United?
First of all, it was in London. I’m familiar with this and the area. It feels amazing to be home, closer to friends and family and where I grew up. I missed the lifestyle, the things I could do outside of football and going out. Everyone was happy [that I was coming back to London], and I received a lot of messages from people, and I could feel the support.
When I spoke to the Head Coach [Julen Lopetegui] about the project that he has with this Club, it made sense for me to come here. I'm also willing to learn the history behind this Club as it’s a huge club in London. He [Lopetegui] has an aim of what he wants, where he wants to take this Club, what he wants to do with these players and how he wants to play. It’s very exciting for everyone.
How have you settled into the squad? Is there anyone in particular who has helped you?
To be honest, as a whole, the squad has just been welcoming, showing me what to do and where to go. So, yeah, I couldn't really single out anyone. Everyone's just been great to me. I settled in during the first week really, and it's very comfortable here. I’m very happy to be a part of a good squad.
What players were you most excited about working with?
Definitely [Mohammed] Kudus and [Jarrod] Bowen. I knew he [Kudus] was strong, but I didn't know he was that strong. You can’t get the ball off him, and I'm happy to be on the same team as him. It’s good to see, and I think it will be good for both of us as we can both push each other.
What are your reflections of your debut against Crystal Palace?
It was a day of mixed feelings because that is where it started for me, and I made my name for West Ham at Selhurst Park. It was good, and the reception from both fans was amazing. You’ve got to put the game first, so when I came on, I wanted to give my all and try and make a difference.
It was good to see [that respect] from the fans and see the support that's still there for me.
What’s your relationship like with Julen Lopetegui, and how excited are you to be part of his project?
It's been pretty smooth. I spoke to the Head Coach before he was at West Ham. So, when I spoke to him again, I kind of knew what he was looking for, what he wanted from me, and after joining the team, it’s been an easy transition.
When you look at this West Ham team, what do you think it can achieve this season?
I always tell myself that I know anything's possible. Any cup is there to win, and we have to get there as a team. I’m always thinking positively going forward, and we can make it happen. We’ve got high expectations for the season.
Talk us through your footballing journey growing up...
I used to follow my brother growing up, and wherever he went, I went. The cages were packed, there were no limits on the number of people, and that’s how I had to adapt. The first team I played for was a local team, Junior Elite, and my brother played for them too. I was there from five years old until I was eleven, and then joined Crystal Palace.
I was actually a striker until I was 18 or 19, and that’s when I made the transition into becoming a full-back.
The most important bit of advice I was given was to stay on track, keep dreaming, and focus on what you actually want to become. There was a period where football was long and it was interfering with high school, and my friends were on different levels to me, but it was about staying focused and maintaining your discipline.
Why did you choose the number 29 shirt?
It's the first number that was given to me when I made my debut. That was a special moment for me, and it was the start of my career, so it’s about being grateful to that number. That’s why I just decided to stick with it everywhere I go.
