Simone Zaza
Position: Striker · Years: 2016-2017 · Team: Men's First Team
Senior appearances: 11 · Goals: 0
Simone Zaza, an Italian forward, had a brief but notable spell at West Ham United during the 2016-2017 season. Joining on loan from Juventus, Zaza was primarily deployed as a striker. Known for his technical skills and versatility in attack, he possessed a powerful shot and was capable of playing both as a central forward and in a supporting role. Though Zaza's time at West Ham was marked by struggles in finding consistent form, he made 11 appearances throughout his tenure. Despite not registering any goals during his loan, his involvement came during a transitional time for the club, moving to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford and adapting to the pressures of the Premier League. Zaza's tenure is often remembered for his distinct playing style, which included clever movement and an ability to link up with teammates. His signing symbolized West Ham's efforts to bring in high-profile players during a period of change. After returning to Juventus, Zaza went on to play for several clubs, but his season at West Ham remains a chapter in the club's modern history, highlighting the challenges faced in adapting to the top tier of English football.
Simone Zaza represented the Men's First Team squad at the club. Playing as a striker during 2016-2017, Records list Simone Zaza with 11 senior appearances and 0 goals for the Hammers. West Ham United forwards have thrilled the Boleyn Ground and London Stadium faithful for over 130 years. Legends such as Geoff Hurst, Tony Cottee, Paolo Di Canio, Carlton Cole and Jarrod Bowen have all worn claret and blue with distinction.
The London Stadium era at West Ham United began in 2016, with the David Moyes second spell delivering the club's first major trophy in 43 years — the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League title in Prague.
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Browse the full West Ham United player archive — over 600 players across the men's, women's, U21 and U18 squads. See how Simone Zaza's era compares in the club's history section, or check On This Day for landmark West Ham moments.
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