📸 New shirt number hints at West Ham star's surprise stay | OneFootball

Nayef Aguerd appears to have ended speculation about his West Ham future by taking over the club’s iconic number 5 shirt – a move widely seen as a clear signal that he intends to stay at the London Stadium for the 2025/26 season.

The Moroccan international spent last season on loan at Real Sociedad and had been linked with a move away this summer, but fan page @WestHam_Central reported on Thursday night that Aguerd had taken the number 5 shirt previously worn by Vladimír Coufal. The change has sparked a wave of optimism among supporters, many of whom believe the defender is now committed to Graham Potter's project.

Fan reactions were swift and overwhelmingly positive. “I’m glad he’s staying put with us,” wrote @Jakestar_23. “I think he could turn into something special this season.” Another user, @AJGWHU, commented: “Good – I think he’ll be half about in a back 3/5 with Kilman and Todibo.”

Aguerd, who joined the Hammers from Rennes in 2022, has shown flashes of quality but endured a stop-start campaign in 2023/24 prior to his loan switch. With West Ham’s recent defensive reinforcements – including the arrivals of Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo – many expected a shake-up in the backline. However, Aguerd’s shirt number switch suggests he remains a central figure in Potter's plans.

“Big news,” simply wrote @alexjg0, while @haytem19 took aim at the doubters: “Where are the [ones] who’ve been saying he wants to leave?”

West Ham have not yet officially confirmed the squad numbers for the new campaign, but the move has already been picked up across fan channels. Fellow account @whujoe called it “BREAKING” news, while @WestHamViews_ added that the development would bolster hopes for a solid campaign.

With the Premier League season fast approaching, West Ham fans will be hoping that Aguerd – now sporting the number of a mainstay – can deliver performances to match the shirt’s status.

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