AdminAlphonse Areola has yet to make an appearance for West Ham this season, with his prolonged absence continuing to raise questions among supporters.
Following the Hammers’ relegation, many expected the experienced goalkeeper to leave, particularly given his previous spells with Real Madrid and PSG and his World Cup-winning experience with France. However, Areola remained in London and appeared willing to accept a backup role.
His strong family ties to the capital may have played a part, while there were few realistic opportunities for him to remain in London as a first-choice goalkeeper elsewhere.
Areola was reportedly close to making his first appearance of the campaign against Southampton in the Carabao Cup, only to suffer a dead leg during preparations for the match.
Since then, he has not featured in a matchday squad. Nuno Espírito Santo previously described the goalkeeper as ‘improving’ ahead of the Wrexham fixture and later said he was ‘getting better’ before the Millwall clash.
His social media activity, including playing sports with his wife and children, has fuelled speculation among fans, but Hammers News reports that Areola is expected to return when QPR visit the London Stadium on Friday 9 October.
The 33-year-old remains under contract until next summer and will need to demonstrate his value if he hopes to earn a new deal.
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