SHOCKING NEWS;Brendan Rodgers confirm as the replacement of Julen Lopetegui and new manager

Some West Ham United supporters might be throwing a rueful gaze back at David Moyes, but his departure at the end of the 2023/24 season was probably just.

The squad had not crashed into the ground but it had lost its footing and, after such a successful era, needed change. Well, Julen Lopetegui has been ushered in and change has been – most certainly – afoot.

£120m was spent on shiny new players, but some have not yet been allowed to really strut their stuff. Let’s take a look at two of them.

Carlos Soler & Jean-Clair Todibo have yet to take off

Carlos Soler and Jean-Clair Todibo both arrived from the French Ligue 1 this summer on respective season-long loan moves that could be turned into permanent deals at the end of the term.

Soler brings creative flair – which is much needed at the moment – but he has been restricted to two substitute appearances thus far. Still, hailed as the “complete midfielder” by former Valencia star Curro Torres, it’s time to chuck him into the starting mix.

West Ham’s midfield has been devoid of inspiration this season, and with Liverpool up next, it could be time for Soler to shine and work his way toward earning a regular starting berth – especially as Guido Rodriguez was substituted before 40 minutes against Chelsea after his wretched performance.

Todibo, conversely, did start in the Carabao Cup second round against Bournemouth but was hooked at half-time after flattering to deceive. Still, he’s a brilliant ball-playing defender and could be fundamental in unlocking this Hammers team and propelling it to the heights that technical director Tim Steidten and co envisaged when anointing him as Moyes’ heir.

Indeed, as per FBref, the Frenchman ranks among the top 4% of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for passes attempted, the top 9% for shot-creating actions, the top 12% for progressive passes, the top 10% for progressive carries, the top 8% for successful take-ons and the top 15% for tackles per 90.