Soungoutou Magassa’s absence from West Ham’s pre-season matches has raised questions about his position under Nuno Espírito Santo.
The £17million midfielder has yet to feature this summer, with his continued absence attributed to a knock.
Claret & Hugh reports that Mohamadou Kanté currently appears to be ahead of Magassa in the midfield hierarchy.
West Ham have not indicated that Magassa wants to leave or that they plan to sell him. However, his lack of minutes has created uncertainty with the competitive season approaching.
The 22-year-old joined West Ham from Monaco in August 2025. He endured a mixed first campaign, although his first goal for the club secured a draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Magassa had been expected to receive a larger role following Mateus Fernandes’ departure. His athleticism and ability to operate in midfield or central defence could prove valuable during a demanding Championship campaign.
Soungoutou Magassa absence adds to midfield concern
West Ham’s goalless draw against Rangers exposed their shortage of control in central areas.
Kanté and Keiber Lamadrid struggled to progress possession consistently at Ibrox. ReadWestHam’s assessment of the four remaining West Ham squad holes identified a controlling midfielder as Nuno’s leading priority.
Freddie Potts, George Earthy and Lewis Orford all received second-half minutes against Rangers. Magassa did not make the matchday squad as West Ham continued to manage his reported knock.
A return for the final friendly against Magdeburg would give Magassa an opportunity to prove he remains part of Nuno’s plans. Further absence would leave him short of match fitness before the Carabao Cup meeting with Portsmouth.
Previous interest from Eintracht Frankfurt already created doubts about his long-term future. However, no fresh offer or transfer request has been reported.
For now, the Soungoutou Magassa absence remains an injury and selection concern rather than evidence of an imminent departure.
