West Ham United is delighted to announce that David Chigwada has signed his first professional contract with the Club.
On his 17th birthday, Chigwada was joined by his close family to put pen to paper on his first professional deal at West Ham United’s Chadwell Heath Training Ground.
The young forward joined West Ham United’s Academy from Manchester City, signing initially on a scholarship deal in the summer. His goalscoring ability and versatility in attacking roles for City’s U16s caught the attention of the Hammers, who offered him the opportunity to continue his development at Chadwell Heath.
Having grown up south of Manchester, Chigwada made sacrifices to pursue a career in football, including changing schools as he progressed through the Academy ranks at Blackburn Rovers and then City. Now, that journey has reached a significant milestone in East London with his first professional contract.
Reflecting on his development so far, David said: “There have been a lot of sacrifices to get here, moving away from friends, but it’s great to see that paying off. Being valued by the Club makes it all worth it."
He continued: “I feel like I’m adjusting well to my new environment. Being offered a scholarship at West Ham was very exciting. The style of play is very unique. The fanbase is very good as well. I’m really looking forward to the next two years.”
Chigwada’s Academy football journey began at Blackburn Rovers at the age of 12. His ability to play in every position across the front line as well as finish with both feet led to a move to Manchester City.
Continuing his goalscoring form at City, the young forward captured the imagination of football fans around the world at the Future Cup, an annual youth tournament organised by Ajax, where he went viral with his own trademark move, dubbed the ‘Chigwada spin’ by fans.
Dat wordt een nachtje niet slapen... 👀🥜#FutureCup pic.twitter.com/1RNMIRlXiB
— ESPN NL (@ESPNnl) March 30, 2024
Since moving to East London in the summer, Chigwada has quickly settled into life at Chadwell Heath and has become a valuable member of Lauris Coggin’s U18s team.
“I just want to be of value to the team,” he added. “Help them in whatever way the coach thinks is best. Showcase what I can do and what I can bring to the table.”
Commenting on Chigwada’s progress, West Ham United Academy Manager Kenny Brown said: “We’re pleased that David has signed with us and that he’s settling in well. He’s an exciting talent who is eager to improve and develop.
"He’s learning a lot under Lauris and the coaching staff and knows he has to be patient. It’s still early in his time with us but he’s a real prospect and we’re all looking forward to working with him, helping him develop and see where we can get him to.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate David on signing his first professional contract and wish him every success in Claret and Blue.
