West Ham reporter says something interesting has happened to the dressing room since Rice left

Since Declan Rice left West Ham United for Arsenal in the summer of 2023, the club has struggled to maintain the same level of intensity and cohesion, both on and off the pitch. The 25-year-old’s departure for a £105 million transfer fee marked a significant turning point for the Hammers, as the midfielder was not only one of the best box-to-box players in the world but also a key leader in the dressing room. West Ham has certainly felt his absence, and not just in terms of his on-field performances.

Rice’s departure left a massive void in the West Ham midfield, one that has been difficult to fill. While his technical abilities were critical to the team’s success, his leadership and presence off the pitch were just as important. Under David Moyes, Tim Steidten, and later Julen Lopetegui, the club has struggled to replace his leadership qualities, and the effects of this are becoming increasingly apparent. Since Rice’s exit, the team’s dynamic has shifted, with the club failing to recapture the chemistry and togetherness that once defined them.

On the pitch, West Ham has lacked the same level of unity and drive. Rice’s ability to dictate the tempo and link defense to attack was unmatched, and without him, the Hammers have found themselves scrambling for consistency. However, it’s not just on the field where the absence is felt. The dressing room, once known for its strong collective spirit, has become a quieter and less cohesive place. According to reports from sources close to the club, the players have missed Rice’s vocal presence and leadership qualities, which were instrumental in keeping the squad focused and motivated, especially during difficult moments

It’s been over a year since Rice left, and the club’s current situation seems to suggest that they are still trying to adjust. With leadership now lacking, West Ham appears to have become more of a collection of individuals rather than a team working in unison. This is a troubling trend, as the absence of a strong leader in the dressing room has led to a lack of cohesion, with players not stepping up in the same way Rice once did. The team’s ability to fight back when faced with adversity has diminished, and they have been prone to folding under pressure. This lack of resilience has been evident in several matches where the team has struggled to maintain their composure and intensity.

Adding to the frustration, managerial decisions around leadership have not helped the situation. Kurt Zouma was made captain last season, a decision that many viewed as questionable, given his limited influence and leadership qualities. This season, Jarrod Bowen has been handed the armband, a move that has also raised eyebrows. Some observers have suggested that neither of these players possess the leadership traits required to guide the team effectively, leading to further concerns about the direction in which the club is heading.

If Julen Lopetegui remains in charge, it seems clear that the club needs to address the leadership void. One potential solution would be to appoint a captain who can inspire and unite the team, such as Max Kilman or Tomas Soucek, both of whom are seen as natural leaders. Additionally, West Ham should look to bolster the squad with players who can provide leadership both on and off the field. With the team lacking a strong personality to rally around, it’s no surprise that they have struggled in tight situations and failed to replicate the performances that were once a hallmark of their success.

In conclusion, West Ham United is still reeling from Declan Rice’s departure, and the impact of his absence is more profound than simply the loss of a talented midfielder. The club has struggled to replace his leadership, and this has contributed to a lack of unity and resilience within the squad. Until the team can find a new leader and restore the collective spirit that was so evident during Rice’s time at the club, it seems unlikely that West Ham will return to the level of performance that once made them a force to be reckoned with.