Pablo Zabaleta has hinted that he could stay at West Ham after telling the Argentinian media that his family are happy and settled in London.
Speaking to Argentinian channel Fox Sports via Spanish media outlet El Intransigente, Zabaleta implied that he could look to sign an extension at West Ham.
The ex-Argentina international is out of contract this summer and has various options on the table. His former club Manchester City might offer him a backroom role, as per The London Evening Standard.
But a one-year extension would allow him to continue playing for West Ham. The veteran defender could end his playing days with the Hammers if he chooses to stay for a third season.
Pablo Zabaleta on his future
While Zabaleta did not explicitly say he would be staying at West Ham, he revealed that he has the option to extend his deal and that he was happy in East London.
Speaking to Fox Sports in Argentina (and translated by Sport Witness), Zabaleta said: “My contract in England ends in June, and I have the possibility of renewing. In any case, things change in football and we’ll wait for the right time. I’m happy here. I’ve done all my career in England, 11 years.
“My family is happy living in London. I came to West Ham to continue to play and get minutes. That’s what I was looking for and I’ve been a starter in 80% of the games.”
Pablo Zabaleta: his role at West Ham
Zabaleta has recently lost his regular starting role at right-back for West Ham. The form of summer 2018 signing Ryan Fredericks has relegated Zabaleta to a bit-part role.
But the 34-year-old’s experience is vital for West Ham and he still has plenty to offer on and off the field of play.
Acting as Fredericks’ mentor and as a back-up option, extending Zabaleta’s deal for another season would be shrewd business for the Hammers.
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