Manuel Pellegrini’s special relationship could see Samir Nasri thrive at West Ham

Add as preferred source on Google

Samir Nasri is approaching a return to football after serving an anti-doping ban. The former Arsenal and Manchester City star has not played since leaving Turkish club Antalyaspor in January.

He can begin training with a new team from next month and the Daily Mail recently linked him with a move to Everton, a story the club have since distanced themselves from.

It is easy to forget just how talented a footballer the Frenchman is and he could undoubtedly be a top free agent option for any Premier League club.

But considering his unique circumstances and famed difficulty, it needs to be at the right club and, most importantly, with the right manager.

One man who always got the best out of Nasri and enjoyed a good relationship with him was West Ham United boss Manuel Pellegrini.

“I am more confident with this manager. He has given me a lot of freedom, I’m a guy who likes to have affection with the manager. I like a manager who likes to talk about what’s good and what’s wrong.”

– Samir Nasri on Manuel Pellegrini

Nasri is the sort of West Ham signing fans at the club have seen enough of. An ageing star, whose best years are behind him, but still commands a sizeable salary. However, West Ham fans will no doubt admit a move looks possible on paper.

“I’m very happy for him. He was very unlucky to have that kind of injury. It is very strange to have six months out with a muscle injury. He was working very well and he returned sooner than the doctor expect(ed).

“I was also very impressed that he played the 90 minutes. He was a very important player and I am very happy with him.”

– Manuel Pellegrini on Samir Nasri

Plus, it could be a shrewd addition.

West Ham are lacking a touch of creativity around the box, as evident in the 1-0 defeat to Brighton last time out.

It is the absence of Manuel Lanzini that is being keenly felt. The Argentine is returning to training but it remains unlikely West Ham will have him in action until 2019.

Nasri could act as a perfect stop-gap and if he finds his best form, could even become a cult hero at the London Stadium.

Of all the teams in the Premier League, it is West Ham who look most likely to give Nasri another chance. It could prove to be a surprise success.