El Hadji Malick Diouf remains a spectator for Senegal at AFCON while West Ham United deal with a defensive shortage and pursue a January move for Utrecht’s Souffian El Karouani.
West Ham United manager Nuno Espírito Santo is facing a growing selection crisis as first-choice left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf remains sidelined for Senegal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
While the Hammers struggle in the Premier League, the £19 million defender has yet to feature in the tournament.
After missing the opener through suspension, Diouf watched from the bench during Senegal’s 1-1 draw with DR Congo as Ismael Jacobs kept his place.
Despite his lack of playing time, Diouf has maintained a professional stance regarding his secondary role under manager Pape Thiaw.
Speaking to D Sports, the defender emphasized squad unity over personal ambition ahead of the clash with Benin.
Diouf stated: “Starter or not, I’m in the squad. I’ll stand by those on the pitch. That’s the most important thing. We must be united to win the AFCON, as captain Kalidou Koulibaly said.”
The situation is particularly pressing for West Ham, as replacement youngster Ollie Scarles has struggled to fill the void during a difficult festive period.
With Aaron Wan-Bissaka also away on international duty, the Hammers’ defensive depth is being tested to its limit.
Diouf remains ready if called upon, noting: “Even if it’s just for one minute, I’m going to go in and give my maximum,” though his absence from London continues to hamper Nuno’s domestic campaign.
To address these concerns, West Ham is reportedly closing in on a January deal for FC Utrecht left-back Souffian El Karouani.
The Moroccan international, who has recorded 15 assists this season, is expected to be sold to balance Utrecht’s budget.
Owner Frans van Seumeren confirmed the player’s likely departure, stating: “Souffian has always said, ‘FC Utrecht can make money off me’.
Hopefully, we’ll reach an amicable agreement… otherwise I hope we can manage to sell him in the winter.”