West Ham United defender El Hadji Malick Diouf believes the Hammers are finally delivering the passion and fight he demanded earlier in the season after a difficult start to the campaign.
The Senegal international has played a key role in the club’s improved performances, particularly since returning from international duty following Senegal’s triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations. Since his return, West Ham have collected 12 points from eight Premier League matches, helping them stabilise their position during a tense period in the season.
For Diouf, the biggest change has not just been tactical adjustments under new head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, but a transformation in the mentality and intensity of the team.
A demand for passion finally answered
Earlier in the campaign, West Ham struggled to find consistency and intensity, particularly during the latter stages of Graham Potter’s tenure. Performances lacked urgency, and the team often appeared passive both with and without the ball.
Diouf openly challenged his teammates at the time, insisting the squad needed to show more fight if they were to avoid being dragged deeper into a relegation battle.
Now, several months later, the defender believes the players have responded.
“Four or five months ago, I was saying that we needed that passion,” Diouf explained.
“If you start really badly, you have to stay patient, because I know we have a really good squad.
It’s still not enough, so we have to continue. We have to keep going.”
His comments highlight a growing belief inside the dressing room that West Ham are turning a corner after a turbulent period earlier in the season.
Defensive resilience against Manchester City
One of the clearest examples of that renewed determination came during West Ham’s 1–1 draw against Manchester City at the London Stadium.
Facing the reigning champions and the attacking brilliance of players like Erling Haaland is never an easy task, but the Hammers produced a disciplined defensive performance to secure a valuable point.
Diouf admitted it was one of the toughest challenges he has faced since arriving in England.
“Playing against Manchester City is really difficult,” he said.
“It’s my first time, but they’re one of the best teams here in England, so I think it’s a good point for us.”
According to the defender, manager Nuno had already warned the team before kickoff that the match would test their defensive organisation and discipline.
The players responded impressively, staying compact and working tirelessly to limit City’s attacking opportunities.
Nuno’s influence beginning to show
Since taking charge, Nuno Espirito Santo has attempted to restore structure and confidence to the West Ham squad.
The Portuguese coach has emphasised defensive organisation and collective work rate — qualities that appear to be slowly returning to the team.
Diouf believes those instructions are now translating into performances on the pitch.
Against Manchester City, West Ham’s defenders were constantly under pressure but remained composed, showing the determination that had been missing earlier in the season.
The result has also changed how opponents view the Hammers. Where once they looked vulnerable, they are now becoming a difficult side to break down.
Focus turns to Aston Villa
Despite the encouraging result, Diouf insists West Ham cannot afford to become complacent.
Their next challenge comes against Aston Villa, a side boasting attacking threats such as Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers.
While Villa may not possess the same dominance as Manchester City, Diouf knows the match will still demand a disciplined and energetic performance.
“The head coach told us it’s a challenge for defenders because we have to defend really well to get a good result,” Diouf said.
“I think we did it today, so we can keep our heads up and try to do better in the next game.”
With the Premier League table still tightly packed, every point remains crucial for West Ham as they attempt to climb further away from danger.
Signs of belief returning
West Ham’s recent performances suggest that belief is gradually returning to the squad.
The improved intensity, defensive organisation, and team spirit highlighted by Diouf could prove vital in the closing stages of the season.
While there is still work to do, the defender’s message is clear: the passion he demanded months ago is finally starting to appear — and if the Hammers maintain it, they may yet finish the campaign on a strong note. ⚒️⚽