Luis Guilherme hailed the support of West Ham United supporters, Head Coach Graham Potter and his teammate and mentor Lucas Paquetá after impressing at the 2025 Premier League Summer Series.
The Brazil U20 international has been given opportunities to play by Potter after catching the eye of the coaching staff in training in Germany and the United States, and he has taken them, first in a ten-minute cameo against Manchester United in New Jersey, then in a 45-minute outing against Everton in Chicago on Wednesday evening.
What made the 19-year-old’s displays more impressive was that he filled a new position as a left wing-back, showing his speed, acceleration and direct threat going forward, and work-rate and defensive awareness in his own half of the pitch.
After making 13 appearances last term following his transfer from Palmeiras, the signs are that Guilherme will be part of Potter’s plans this season, and the player himself is determined to take the chances afforded to him.
Luis, you played another 45 minutes and had another good experience?
“I’m very happy to be playing this game. I think we did very well in the match. I’m very happy to be helping the team in some way. We’re getting better and better. Once again, I’m very happy with the victory.
“I hope I can play some great games in pre-season and throughout the season ahead. I’m very happy with the opportunity the coach is giving me. I’m getting better and better, feeling better and better on the field.
“Once again, I hope I can help the team in some way. I’m very happy for the opportunity.”
We know that when you played in Brazil, and in Brazil at U20 level, you either played in the middle of the field or on the wing, but you have been in a new position in pre-season, as a lefr wing-back. How do you like that?
“For me, it’s a position I like. Wherever the coach wants me to play, I’ll be available. Playing the position I did, I played a bit more in the five-man line there.
“So, for me, there’s no such thing as the position I want to fill. I want to be helping the team in some way and I’m very happy about the game.”
Your good friend Lucas got us level with a goal and showed his quality throughout the game?
“Paquetá is an incredible guy. Since day one, he’s been helping me constantly. He’s getting better and better. He’s a fantastic player, no words needed. I just have to thank him too, for helping me every day.
“I’m feeling comfortable, so I can play my game so, once again, I’m very happy that he’s helping me on and off the field.”
The last question: how do you like America? You went to Times Square in New York City with Lucas, you saw the fans, you saw the cities. Do you like it?
“Yes, definitely. Times Square is a place I’ve been wanting to go, so I had the opportunity to go on my day off. Regarding the fans, I’m very happy with all the support they’ve been giving us. So, I’m very happy about that.”
