Aaron Wan-Bissaka has opened up about his summer exit from Manchester United, describing the move as ‘difficult’.
The Red Devils activated a one-year extension on Wan-Bissaka’s contract at the start of the year intending to sell him in the summer transfer market.
West Ham struck a deal for the defender, forking out £15million in August. The full-back committed to a seven-year tenure with the Hammers, thus returning to his birthplace, London.
After clocking up 190 appearances for United and bagging two pieces of silverware, Wan-Bissaka departed Old Trafford and made way for Noussair Mazraoui’s arrival. His defensive prowess was rated among the finest in England’s top flight, despite questions over his attacking output.
Wan-Bissaka particularly shone in the Carabao Cup final of 2023 and the subsequent FA Cup final in 2024, contributing significantly to Erik ten Hag’s double trophy haul in as many seasons.
Now back in London, the Croydon-raised right-back spoke to Sky Sports about his joy at being nearer his family and embracing a fresh challenge with a new squad, but he couldn’t help reminiscing about his time at United.
“I’m happy to be back, I’m closer to home,” he shared. “Also it’s a new challenge, with a new team, so it’s been good. What have I missed? The weather! Where I was before, it was always raining and cloudy.
“It’s great, they’ve been supporting me ever since, so for them to be able to come and watch my games quite often now is good. The location and the manager’s project attracted me.
“To be honest, I wasn’t really thinking about it too much [leaving United]. I was trying to keep my head down in pre-season and focus on becoming fit. It’s always difficult to leave, it’s not a simple decision and you have to think about the other stuff that comes with it. I’m proud.
“The whole journey [in Manchester]. Whatever it’s come with. The ups and downs. Being able to get two cups out of it. Going through that experience was amazing.”
Discussing the FA Cup final win against Manchester City, Wan-Bissaka expressed: “It was a great team performance. Even going into that game we had a good feeling that we would get something out of this. To end it with a trophy, I can’t have asked for anything better”.
Regarding the upcoming weekend’s game, he added: “It will be a great challenge, I know what they’re capable of, having trained with them every day, so I know what to expect.
“We have to be prepared. It’s a team game and I can only give my best and try to help the team. It’s not easy to put things together and for it to click. Everybody is working hard, everybody is pushing each other to make things work. If we keep that mindset it will happen. I’m excited. I can see it from the training pitch how hungry everybody is. It’s only a matter of time”.
Following the appointment of Julen Lopetegui, West Ham were tipped to vie for a spot in Europe this season. However, they have found it challenging and currently languish in 15th place in the league table.