Prior to West Ham United’s Europa League clash against FK TSC tonight, Emerson Palmieri had a word with the Brazilian media.
The fullback, who joined West Ham in the summer of 2022, claimed it was an easy decision for him to sign for the Hammers, as he wanted to get back to the Premier League.
“The motivation to return to the Premier League was very clear because it’s the best league in the world, a fascinating competition,” Emerson Palmieri told ESPN Brasil.
“When I heard about the interest I didn’t think twice. And, of course, coming to a club the size of West Ham was very rewarding for me.”
“Given the quality of our squad, we can fight for a place in a European competition. I think we have those qualities and I believe we can have a very good Premier League season, much better than last year.”
Palmieri was born in Brazil and started his career at Santos. He played for Palermo and AS Roma in Italy until getting bought by Chelsea in 2018.
By the end of his time with the Blues, he spent a season on loan at Lyon, and in the summer of 2022, finally had the chance to get back to the Premier League, as West Ham found a deal to buy sign for €15.4m.
Palmieri has 17 appearances for the Hammers this season, and his contract with the club runs until 2026, with an option for an extra year.
