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‘Ready for the next step’ – West Ham young talent admits he will leave this summer

Jamal Baptiste, the young player for West Ham United, has confirmed that he will be departing from the club during the upcoming summer, TBR.

Baptiste’s contract with West Ham is set to expire, and he has informed The Athletic that he is seeking a fresh challenge. Although he made his debut for West Ham almost two years ago at the age of 17, he has only made one appearance since then. The 19-year-old has faced a challenging season due to health issues.

The Athletic reports that he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a nerve condition, after experiencing symptoms during pre-season. Now, having returned to full training, he has openly stated that he will be leaving West Ham before his contract expires in the summer.

Baptiste has shared details about his struggles this season and expressed his readiness to take the next step in his career.

He said: “When there was big hype on me when I was younger, I wanted to show people that, ‘Yeah, people are saying this for a reason’.

“It was frustrating that I knew what I wanted to do but my body wouldn’t allow me to do it.

“The biggest fear was not knowing if I would play again. I won’t take football for granted moving forward. My first game back was a big relief.

“Playing academy football from 15 to 19 is a long time. I’m ready for first-team football and to take the next step.

“I loved having the opportunity to play for West Ham; I’m a local lad and the club will always have a place in my heart. But I’m ready for the next step in my career and I feel like the best is yet to come.”

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