West Ham United is delighted to announce that young midfielder Mohamadou Kanté has signed a new contract with the Club until the summer of 2031.
The 20-year-old joined the U21s development squad in August 2024 from Paris FC, before immediately returning to the French capital on loan and helping the club win promotion to Ligue 1 for the first time in 46 years.
In his first season with the U21s, Kanté has impressed with his technical quality, physicality and goal contributions from a deep-lying midfield role. He has started all of our young Hammers’ last eight matches, scoring three goals and providing two assists.
“It makes me really proud,” he said after signing his new deal. “I have to keep working hard and pushing myself. When you’re focused on improving every day, that’s all you think about, so I’m very happy and I thank the Club for the confidence they’ve shown in me.”
Reflecting on adapting to English football, he continued: “Physically, I’ve always had good stamina, but here it’s another level. I’m making progress in that area and working harder for it too; the training sessions are more intense.
“We’re working hard in the gym and on the pitch, and I’m feeling better and better. Even tactically, I’m learning all the time and think I’m improving and getting stronger.”
Away from football, Kanté has also had to adjust to life in a new country, language and culture.
“My relationship with my teammates is developing really well,” he said. “Communicating can still be a bit tricky, but we understand each other. I’ve been taking English classes, and even off the pitch we can chat together, which is great.”
Upon rejoining the Hammers in the summer, Kanté was immediately called into the first-team squad for their pre-season trips to Germany and the United States, before he returned to the development side in August.
He immediately made an impression, capping off an impressive debut performance with a late goal against Woking in the National League Cup.
Academy Manager Kenny Brown praised the midfielder’s impact so far: “I think what probably surprised everyone was how quickly he settled in. It wouldn’t have been easy because he went straight away with the first team to Germany, then to the States, so he didn’t come into the Under-21s set-up until late in pre-season.
“He hadn’t played any minutes, so to see where he is now in such a short period of time has been really encouraging. He looks like he’s enjoying his football, and the way he’s now taking control of games at Under-21s level is promising.
“Physically, he’s an athlete, that’s the modern profile of a Premier League midfielder. You’ve got to have energy, cover ground and have presence, but he’s more than that. He’s got real ability on the ball and can score goals.
“It’s been an excellent start for him. There’s still a lot to learn as he continues developing, but he’s really well thought of in the dressing room and among the staff. He comes in with a big smile on his face and works hard every day. We’re delighted to have extended his contract and secured him for the long term.”
Everyone at West Ham United would like to congratulate Mohamadou on his new contract and wish him every success in Claret and Blue.
