Divine Mukasa apparently left Nils Koppen in little doubt about where he wanted to play this season before completing his return to West Ham United.
The 19-year-old rejoined his former club from Manchester City on a season-long loan in August and has quickly become an important part of Nuno Espírito Santo’s midfield.
West Ham had already confirmed Mukasa’s homecoming after he spent three years away from the Academy of Football. ReadWestHam’s report on Mukasa completing his return
Now Koppen has offered further insight into how strongly the midfielder wanted the move.
Mukasa only wanted West Ham return
Speaking ahead of an extended Iron Cast interview, Koppen revealed that Mukasa made his preference clear during discussions over his future.
“He said ‘the only club I want to come to is West Ham’,” Koppen said, according to Hammers News.
Koppen also described the youngster as “desperate to come back”.
The comments add another layer to a transfer that has already started paying off for West Ham.
Mukasa quickly proving his value
Mukasa has established himself rapidly following his return, with his performances alongside Arne Engels helping Nuno find greater balance in midfield.
ReadWestHam previously examined how Mukasa has changed Nuno’s plans after the teenager forced his way into the starting XI.
Manchester City still control Mukasa’s long-term future, with the current agreement running only for the season.
For now, however, Koppen’s revelation makes one thing clear.
Mukasa did not simply accept another Championship loan. He actively wanted his West Ham homecoming.
