---
title: "Former West Ham prospects Parker and Thompson earn Next Generation recognition"
canonical: "https://readwestham.com/2026/10/06/west-ham-parker-thompson-next-generation-2026/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "West Ham News"
published: "2026-10-06T06:00:00Z"
modified: "2026-10-06T06:00:00Z"
---

# Former West Ham prospects Parker and Thompson earn Next Generation recognition

Xavier Parker and Kyran Thompson feature in [the Guardian’s 2026 Next Generation selection](https://www.theguardian.com/football/ng-interactive/2026/oct/05/next-generation-2026-20-of-the-best-talents-at-premier-league-clubs).

Both spent time in West Ham’s academy before continuing their development elsewhere. Parker now plays for Manchester City, while Thompson joined Newcastle United this summer after a spell at Arsenal.

Their progress gives Hammers supporters two familiar names to follow, with both building their careers away from east London.

## How Parker and Thompson progressed after leaving West Ham

[Manchester City’s official profile](https://www.mancity.com/players/xavier-parker) confirms Parker joined from West Ham in 2024.

The midfielder stepped up to City’s Under-18 squad for the 2025/26 campaign. The club credits him with six goals and seven assists across 21 appearances as the team won the Under-18 Premier League North title and FA Youth Cup.

Thompson took a different route.

[Newcastle’s signing announcement](https://www.newcastleunited.com/en/news/newcastle-uniteds-academy-welcome-trio-of-new-signings) confirms he moved from West Ham to Arsenal ahead of the 2024/25 season and made his Under-18 debut aged 15.

The England youth international subsequently moved to Tyneside and signed his first professional contract on his 17th birthday in September.

For West Ham, their development provides a reason to follow two former academy players, although their senior careers are still taking shape.

Supporters can also follow the players pursuing opportunities closer to home through our [West Ham academy guide](https://readwestham.com/west-ham-academy-guide-2/), which explains the routes through youth football, loans and the first team.