Spanish-Malian winger Adama Traoré told to avoid gym at West Ham

Adama Traoré has been instructed to stay out of the gym at West Ham, with manager Nuno Espírito Santo keen to preserve the winger’s natural attributes rather than add further muscle.

The 30-year-old Spanish-Malian wide player, who joined West Ham United from Fulham FC during the winter transfer window, signed a contract running until June 2027.

Known for his powerful build, Traoré’s physique has long drawn attention, often likened to that of a bodybuilder.

However, his manager has made clear that adding strength is not part of the plan.

“His genetics have been like that for some time now and he should avoid the gym. I told him not to go to the gym,” the Portuguese coach explained at a press conference.

Rather than focusing on weight training, Traoré will follow a programme centred on injury prevention and mobility. The aim, according to Nuno Espírito Santo, is to maintain the winger’s explosiveness and pace, key features of his game on the right flank.

“He will do preventative work, but he won’t be there to lift weights. For example, Airidas Golambeckis, our 18-year-old defender, spends hours in the gym to build muscle. We need him to gain weight, not Traoré ,” he added humorously.

The manager’s remarks underline a tailored approach to player development within the squad. While younger players such as Golambeckis are encouraged to build physical strength, Traoré’s conditioning plan is designed to protect what he already possesses.

Nuno Espírito Santo is no stranger to working with the winger, having previously managed him between 2018 and 2021. That earlier spell saw Traoré establish himself as a dynamic attacking threat, relying on acceleration and direct running to trouble defenders.

At West Ham, the focus appears to be on refining those same qualities rather than reshaping his physique. By limiting gym sessions to preventative and flexibility work, the coaching staff hope to keep him sharp and reduce the risk of injury over the remainder of his contract.

The decision reflects a broader strategy: optimise performance without compromising the natural speed and power that define Traoré’s game.