West Ham Boss Nuno Espirito Santo Issues Gym Ban to Adama Traore
West Ham United manager Nuno Espirito Santo has taken the unusual step of forbidding winger Adama Traore from lifting weights in the gym. This directive comes despite Traore's renowned muscular physique, which has become a trademark of his playing style throughout his career.
Genetics Over Gym Work for the Muscle-Bound Winger
Speaking ahead of West Ham's Premier League clash with Fulham, Nuno explained his reasoning. 'It's incredible, it's genetics,' the manager stated. 'His genetics have been like this for some time now and he should avoid the gym. I've told him to stay out of the gym. It's one of the things that I think he needs to realise. It's enough weight that he carries.'
The 30-year-old Spanish international, who can bench press an impressive 145 kilograms, was recently filmed by teammate Crysencio Summerville engaging in weight training. This contradicted Traore's previous claims that he never lifts weights, highlighting the ongoing tension between his natural build and training habits.
Prevention Work Permitted, But No Heavy Lifting
Nuno clarified that Traore is still allowed to undertake prevention work in the gym to maintain fitness and avoid injuries. However, the focus is strictly on avoiding heavy weight lifting sessions. 'He'll do prevention work, but he's not in there lifting weights,' Nuno emphasised.
In a contrasting approach, the manager noted that younger players like Under-21s defender Airidas Golambeckis require extensive gym time to build muscle. 'He spends hours in the gym - we have to get weight on him. He's the one that needs some muscle, it's the other way around,' Nuno added, underscoring the personalised training regimens at the club.
Familiarity from Wolves and the Baby Oil Tactic
Nuno's history with Traore dates back to their time together at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where the manager even approved a unique tactic to enhance the winger's effectiveness. To make Traore more difficult for defenders to handle, the medical department suggested covering him in baby oil.
Recalling the 2021 innovation, Nuno said, 'I thought it was honestly a fantastic idea by the medical department because it came from the injury that he had with his shoulder. That was caused basically because of holding of his arm and creating this strong impact on his shoulder and he got injured from that.'
'It's very hard to stop Adama and that avoids that situation. He becomes more slippery, so we get the advantage of his speed and talent. It was an option to avoid it, and from then on, he's kept on doing it and it's good,' Nuno explained, highlighting the strategic thinking behind Traore's unorthodox preparations.
Traore's Unique Attributes and Adaptation at West Ham
Despite weighing approximately 86 kilograms, Adama Traore remains one of the fastest players in the Premier League. His quickest recorded speed in the English top flight is an astonishing 36.64 kilometres per hour. This combination of bulk and pace is rare in world football.
Nuno praised Traore's unique abilities, stating, 'Traore's unique. There are not many players in world football with his ability, pace and skills in one v one situations. He's a talent that we have to take advantage of, but it will take time. He has to adapt and understand the dynamic of the team.'
The winger, who signed for West Ham in January for £2 million from Fulham, has proven himself at high levels, including recent call-ups to the Spain national squad. As West Ham battles for survival this season, Traore's contribution will be crucial, albeit under Nuno's strict gym guidelines.
