After deciding against the move, Manuel Pellegrini was right not to go for Yaya Toure.
The powerhouse midfielder was a Premier League title-winner at Manchester City. He was also widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s best players during his time at the Citizens.
However, Pellegrini today confirmed that he won’t be looking at a reunion with the Ivorian. The Chilean managed Toure during his spell in charge at City between 2013 and 2016.
Despite the undoubted quality Toure has, this is undoubtedly the right move from the new West Ham manager.
Firstly, Pellegrini has made it clear he’s looking to build an attacking side that plays quick, forward-thinking football. Toure doesn’t necessarily fit into this system given his slow style of play. Despite having incredible technical quality, Toure doesn’t shift the ball the way Pellegrini would want his side to do so.
The 35-year-old is currently a free-agent, but West Ham already have enough CDMs who can get from box-to-box.
Another big reason not to go for Toure is his wage demands and off-field issues. Given his standing and pedigree in the game, the former Barcelona man could command a heavy wage packet.
West Ham and City fans will remember the debacle of the birthday cake during his time at the Etihad. This involved Toure apparently being angry and considering to leave the club because he wasn’t wished a happy birthday.
This came under Pellegrini’s tenure at the club, and that could have a bearing also on why he didn’t want to go for his former star.
The Hammers are at the dawn of a new era, and the acquisition of Toure would be a let down. Where Pellegrini is looking to build a quick and vibrant young side, looking at the Ivorian would go against that philosophy.
Toure certainly has strong attributes. Being a powerful box-to-box midfielder, he carries a huge goal threat and stature in the game. His ability to change games during his time in Manchester was uncanny.
However, at this point in time, he isn’t what West Ham need. With Pellegrini looking to the future, the signature of Toure will feel like living in the past.
Could he add something to West Ham? Absolutely. Would he take something away from West Ham? Overwhelmingly.
It all comes down to philosophy vs individual quality. Pellegrini had to decide whether he wanted to sacrifice his whole project to get a hugely talented player through the door. Toure doesn’t fit nor does he help what the Hammers are trying to build.
It’s a huge decision made by the club and Pellegrini, but in the end it’ll prove to be the correct one.
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