German defender Thilo Kehrer had a two-year stint at West Ham United but never quite made his mark at the London-based club.
He played multiple positions at West Ham, operating at centre-back, left-back and at right-back, failing to ever settle in. He left the club for French side Monaco in January 2024.
After an initial loan stint, the move was made permanent in the summer and he’s been a pivotal part of the club’s backline this season, helping them to top of the Ligue 1 standings.
His performances have been praised in France and it’s a contrasting picture from how things were at West Ham.
“Being flexible is a strength. But for me it is very helpful to have a fixed position in the centre. That is when I am at my best.”
Monaco have used him at centre-back throughout the season, giving the German a sense of certainty on the pitch which he didn’t even have previously.
He also hailed the confidence and trust he feels from the club, saying: “A number of things come together. Self-confidence, playing time, trust from the club, coach and teammates.”
David Moyes’ side had constant competition in the backline, which won’t have helped Kehrer.
