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Michail Antonio revealed an intriguing facet of Manuel Pellegrini’s managerial style shortly after the turn of the year, per WHUFC.com.
“I’ve been saying this in every interview that I’ve done this year and the mindset he’s given us is unbelievable.
“Every training session he comes in and says ‘think we are a big team. Perform like we are a big team and go out there and believe you are a big team’.”
These quotes provided the fans with a genuine insight into the manager’s vision for the club, and a recent report from the Daily Mail suggests he’s making a move into the transfer market which can help him to fulfil his grand plans in east London.
What’s the word?
The report claims the Hammers have tabled a £9.5 million bid to secure the services of Guillermo Maripan.
Pellegrini’s fellow Chilean has a £21 million release clause written into his contract but West Ham are hoping they can beat Roma to his signature with an offer well below that figure.
However, the report claims the Italians are in pole position to sign him after holding talks with the 24-year-old defender in recent weeks.
Perfect for Pellegrini’s vision
Stylistically speaking, Maripan has been compared to Gerard Pique due to his ball-playing capabilities.
In the modern game the importance of possession and feeling comfortable passing out from the back has practically become synonymous with success, so it’s no surprise Pellegrini is targeting the Alaves defender.
As Antonio revealed, Pellegrini is trying to install a big-team mentality into the club, but that will only be possible if he has the players to realise that vision.
Having ten outfield players who are all incredibly composed and effective in possession of the ball, and ideally a ball-playing goalkeeper, represents something of a prerequisite for any big team.
If West Ham’s opening offer of £9.5 million is accepted there’s no doubt it would represent a cunning acquisition in the current market.
Maripan has showcased his talent in Alaves’ surprising climb into the top half of the La Liga table this season, and his experience in overachieving at club level may well have provided him with the mindset Pellegrini is demanding from his players.
There is plenty of work left to be done for the Hammers boss to realise his possession-based, big team dream, but signing a natural ball-playing central defender would certainly represent a step in the right direction.