‘Lanzini convinced me West Ham United was the right destination’ – Zabaleta

Pablo Zabaleta said he was persuaded to join West Ham United by countryman Manuel Lanzini.

The Argentine defender, 32, has ended a nine-year stint at Manchester City, during which time he won two Premier League titles.

Zabaleta was City’s third longest-serving player behind Joe Hart and Vincent Kompany, and has penned a two-year deal with the Hammers.

Despite receiving numerous offers at home and abroad, Zabaleta opted to remain in England and has credited a chat with Lanzini as one of the reasons behind his decision to stay in the Premier League.

“I spoke a few times with him (Lanzini) and of course, I’m so happy to see Manu doing that well,” said Zabaleta.

(Photo by Kieran Galvin/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“I think he had an incredible season and is in the list for the two games for the national team, which is really good for him.

“Manu is one of the main players for this club and for the team, and hopefully, I can meet him as a team-mate very soon.

“I spoke to Manu, especially because when West Ham showed interest in signing me, it was a good opportunity for me to have some information about the club, especially from someone inside.

“It was something we don’t know from outside, of course.

“He told me really good words about everyone at the club, that he was enjoying himself as a West Ham player and enjoying life in London, so it was good for me to have that information to help me make my final decision.”