This 40-Year-Old Star Returns Back To West Ham United: Is It A Good Move? | OneFootball

The West Ham United goalkeeper situation is in the headlines at the moment, and the picture is constantly changing. Lukasz Fabianski was in talks to return to the club. The talks were first brought to light by talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook, and now the deal has been finalised.

The matter:

West Ham completely revamped their goalkeeping department over the summer. Mads Hermansen was brought in from Leicester City for a huge amount, while long-serving Fabianski was let go. Wes Foderingham, who was linked with a June 2024 move to Cyprus in early September. The developments leave the Hammers with just two senior options in Hermansen and Alphonse Areola.

However, things only got worse when Hermansen conceded eight goals in his first two league games, clearly showing the pressure on him and new manager Graham Potter. Areola played in the Carabao Cup defeat but failed to inspire confidence.

The situation for the club seemed out of balance. That is why the option of bringing Fabianski back suddenly resurfaced. His experience, deep roots within the club and presence in the dressing room could perhaps provide stability to the team at a critical time. Against this backdrop, the move looks pragmatic for West Ham, even if it is the exact opposite of the decision taken a few months ago.

Will Fabianski’s return be the right move for West Ham?

IPSWICH, ENGLAND – MAY 25: Lukasz Fabianski of West Ham United shows appreciation to the fans following his final appearance for the club after the Premier League match between Ipswich Town FC and West Ham United FC at Portman Road on May 25, 2025 in Ipswich, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

The question now is whether Fabianski’s return is a step in the right direction. Many fans believe the decision may have been a bit hasty after the club released him just a few months ago and then saw Wes Foderingham move to Cyprus.

The £16.5m investment in Mads Hermansen has not looked safe so far, as his early weaknesses have weakened the front line, while Alphonse Areola has also not impressed in cup matches, leaving the lack of a third option very clear.

In this context, the Polish goalkeeper’s reintroduction makes more sense. At 40, he is a fit and disciplined professional, Graham Potter himself admits. His experience and leadership can be a great lesson for both Hermansen and Areola. It’s not a flashy transfer for fans, but a stable and respected presence could provide the club with much-needed relief.

His contribution could prove crucial, especially in the early stages of instability. Meanwhile, there were also reports that West Ham are eyeing Frank Lampard as a manager option and that the club recently rejected the opportunity to sign Andre Onana in the summer.

Fabianski’s return could be the simplest but most useful decision in all of this. We believe that this move is not part of a long-term plan, but an attempt to handle the current pressure, but this effort sometimes ends up damaging the foundation of the club.