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New Milan signing Niclas Fullkrug has opened up about his disappointing Premier League spell with West Ham, explaining that poor physical preparation following Euro 2024 and a demanding previous season contributed to his struggles in England before joining the Rossoneri on loan this January.
Fullkrug Opens Up on West Ham Struggles After Completing Milan Loan Move
The German striker spoke candidly during his first Milan press conference on Friday afternoon, reflecting on his underwhelming 18-month period at West Ham where he managed just three goals in 26 Premier League appearances. Fullkrug joined the Hammers from Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth around 30 million euros following his impressive performances for Germany at Euro 2024.
Fullkrug identified the demanding 2023-24 season as a crucial factor in his Premier League struggles, revealing he played 57 games before moving to West Ham. The 31-year-old explained that his participation in Euro 2024 prevented proper pre-season preparation, leaving him physically unprepared for the challenges of English football when he arrived at the London Stadium.
“West Ham wasn’t an easy place,” Fullkrug told the media. “I came in after a very long season, with 57 games. I couldn’t prepare well in pre-season because of the EUROs. I moved to West Ham without being able to prepare on a physical level. Things didn’t work out for me in England, but I hope to turn the page.”
The striker expressed confidence about his fresh start at Milan, praising the club’s medical team for providing an excellent training programme that has helped him regain fitness. Fullkrug has already featured in Milan’s last two Serie A fixtures since completing his loan move with an option to buy on the first day of the January transfer window.
Fullkrug reflected on his previous success with Werder Bremen, Borussia Dortmund and the German national team, stating he wants to return to that level of regular goals and assists. “I feel fresh, fit. I’ve felt good over the last two games,” he said. “If the ball lands in the box, I will try to put it in the back of the net. I hope to score some big goals.”
