The 2022/23 season holds mixed feelings for Maxwel Cornet.
Of course, to win any trophy – let alone a piece of European silverware – is a special moment in any player’s career. With five assists in seven matches, the Ivorian played a crucial role in that UEFA Europa Conference League success.
On the other hand, a first campaign in Claret and Blue came with injury setbacks for the 26-year-old. The winger played 21 times in all competitions in his maiden season for the Hammers, as Cornet spent almost five months unavailable to manage David Moyes for selection.
“It was a great season for us last year because we won a trophy and, when you win something, it creates a real desire to win more stuff,” Cornet told whufc.com. “We’re going to really work hard this season to go again and achieve even more special moments.
“On the other hand, there were times when it was really difficult for me. I was watching the guys play and I couldn’t do anything to help them out, so it was a challenge. It was really frustrating at times.”
As such, there has been a renewed determination about Cornet throughout pre-season. The versatile attacker has worked harder than ever, throughout his holidays and since his return to Rush Green in July.
Cornet has been a consistent in the senior team since stepping back into training with his fellow international Hammers. Having scored against Dagenham & Redbridge in his first match back, he is eager to continue pushing forward into the competitive campaign.
He continued, “I’m excited for this season. I feel like I’ve worked really hard. My physical training has been at a different level which has helped me to be really fit for the new season. I scored in the game against Dagenham in pre-season too, and I hope I can get many goals this season for West Ham.
“I’m feeling really good. I did everything I could during the holidays to get to my best and be as healthy as I can. I’m confident for this season. I want to show what I can do on the pitch, both for my teammates and the boss, who has shown a lot of belief in me.
“I’m very excited to start the new season with no injuries hanging over me. I want to show my true potential for West Ham United.”
A new season brings a new squad number for Maxwel Cornet. Perhaps, in some ways, it signals a new beginning.
Having worn the No14 last campaign, a switch to the No17 has been made by the winger. It holds sentimental value for Cornet, as the first number he ever wore as a professional footballer.
“The No17 was the first number I wore when I signed my first ever professional contract with Metz in France. It holds a special place with me because of that.
“I’m happy to wear this number again and I hope it brings me a lot of success at West Ham.”
With weeks of hard work done, the test now truly begins on Saturday at Vitality Stadium. AFC Bournemouth have a new manager in Andoni Iraola and are looking up the Premier League table after retaining their spot in the top flight last campaign.
Bournemouth was the scene of one of West Ham’s finest Premier League outings last season. A 4-0 win on the South Coast prompted jubilant scenes among the travelling Claret and Blue Army, and Cornet is eager to make a good start to the current campaign.
He added: “Bournemouth will be a good test for sure. We know what they can do and they have a new manager as well, but it’s important that we start the season well and get three points.
“We have been putting in the work on the training pitch to be ready for this and I’m sure we can put on a good performance and get the win.”
