Niclas Füllkrug insists he is feeling strong and ready to play a key role in the upcoming 2025/26 season after completing 72 minutes of West Ham United’s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in the Premier League Summer Series.
The Hammers ultimately fell to two Bruno Fernandes strikes at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, despite Jarrod Bowen halving the deficit in the 63rd minute with a neat right-footed strike.
Bowen was partnered with Füllkrug in attack against the Red Devils, and the Germany international caught the eye with some neat touches and some strong pressing throughout the entertaining contest.
Having been limited to 20 appearances in all competitions last term, following his arrival from Borussia Dortmund in August 2024, Füllkrug explained how he worked hard during the off-season to regain his full fitness, and is now feeling close to his best form once more.
“I feel like I’m in a really good place,” Füllkrug said. “I worked a lot during my holidays - nearly every day. I wanted to work because I wanted to get back to my best.
“Since then we’ve had some tough training sessions, including in Germany before we came here to America. That’s helped me get closer and closer, and now I feel good, relaxed and confident I can go on and have a good season.
“For me, I think there were lots of positives to take from the Manchester United game. It felt a bit like a Premier League game, because we were playing a big Premier League team in a big stadium with lots of support.
“Of course, it was hard work, and we had a difficult start, but we came back and I think we had good moments. We have a good squad, with good youngsters pushing, so I think we’re heading in the right direction.”
Füllkrug featured at the MetLife having already played in the USA for his national team in October 2023, when he scored in Germany’s 2-2 friendly draw with Mexico in October 2023 at the Philadelphia Eagles’ Lincoln Financial Field.
This time around, he was delighted to engage with several members of the Claret and Blue faithful in attendance, and overall he is enjoying immersing himself in the American culture while on the other side of the pond.
He added: “I remember playing here for Germany against Mexico, which was also a nice game in a nice stadium. It was a good atmosphere, and the people in the US are always great supporters.
“It’s always nice to have good support, and play for people who don’t always get to watch us. It was great to see so many people here in Claret and Blue.
“It’s been brilliant over here so far. The facilities have been amazing, and I think we’re all just excited to see what else is in store in the remainder of the trip.”
