Cheikhou Kouyaté Extends West Ham Contract After Stellar Premier League Performances
Senegalese international Cheikhou Kouyaté has firmly established himself as one of the Premier League’s top defensive midfielders, prompting West Ham United to extend his contract. The Hammers are increasingly aware of Kouyaté’s influence within the squad and his crucial role on the pitch.
Speaking about his evolving role, Kouyaté told La Dernière Heure, “Coach Slaven Bilic reminds me of Besnik Hasi. Both of them give me freedom. Hasi put me in midfield during the 2014 playoffs next to Youri Tielemans, and Bilic does the same. Sometimes I play in front of the defense, but often I’m box-to-box. Against Tottenham, I even helped in defense.”
Since joining West Ham, Kouyaté has also improved his goal-scoring record. “Everyone is surprised by that. I’ve hit several battens and posts! I scored at the Emirates, but my best goal was my half-volley against Manchester United last season,” he added.
Despite his rising profile, Kouyaté remains humble. “People like me, but I don’t think of myself as a star. For us, Payet is the star,” he concluded.
With his performances attracting attention and his contract secured, Kouyaté is now in a strong position to help West Ham challenge for European qualification. The versatile midfielder’s combination of defensive solidity, attacking support, and disciplined work rate makes him central to the Hammers’ ambitions, including a potential return to the Champions League next season.
