West Ham Manager Issues Gym Ban for Adama Traore
West Ham United manager Nuno Espirito Santo has implemented a surprising restriction on new signing Adama Traore, explicitly banning the winger from lifting weights at the club's training ground. The Portuguese coach has warned the Spanish international that he does not require any additional muscular development.
Genetic Physique Requires Careful Management
Nuno acknowledged Traore's remarkable physical attributes while explaining the unusual prohibition. "It's incredible, it's genetics," the manager stated. "His genetics has been like this for some time now and he should avoid the gym."
The 30-year-old forward, who joined West Ham from Fulham during the January transfer window, has been instructed to focus on prevention work rather than traditional weight training. "I've told him to stay out of the gym," Nuno emphasized. "It's one of the things that I think he needs to realise. It's enough weight that he carries."
Contrasting Approaches to Player Development
Nuno highlighted the different requirements for various squad members, creating a striking contrast in training approaches. While Traore must avoid excessive muscle building, Under-21s defender Airidas Golambeckis receives opposite instructions.
"For example, Airidas Golambeckis spends hours in the gym - we have to get weight on him," Nuno explained. "He's the one that needs some muscle, it's the other way around."
Reunion with Former Manager
The January transfer reunited Traore with Nuno Espirito Santo, having previously worked together at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Despite this familiarity, the winger has seen limited Premier League action since arriving at West Ham, primarily appearing as a substitute.
Traore made his sole start for the Hammers in an FA Cup victory over Burton Albion, with the club hoping his unique abilities will aid their battle against relegation.
Manager Confident in Traore's Eventual Impact
Despite the current restrictions and limited playing time, Nuno expressed strong confidence in Traore's eventual contribution to the team. "Traore's unique," the manager underlined. "There are not many players in world football with his ability, pace and skills in one v one situations."
Nuno acknowledged the adaptation period required but emphasized Traore's proven quality. "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. But he's proven in England and in the Spain squad not long ago, so we're talking about a high-level player."
The situation presents an unusual training dilemma as West Ham prepares for their upcoming Premier League match against Fulham on Wednesday night, with Traore's physical management becoming a notable subplot in the club's relegation battle.
