Marko Anautovic’s West Ham future will be decided by Manuel Pellegrini, according to the Hammers’ vice-chairman Karren Brady.
The Austrian scored 10 goals last season in the Premier League and attracted interest from China.
Arnautovic made it clear he wanted to depart the club last January but went on to sign a deal to keep him at the London Stadium until 2023.
Vice chairman Karren Brady opened up about his future and insisted that his fate will be determined by Manuel Pellegrini and not anybody else.
“It’s the same with every player – their future at the club is determined by the manager. Not by the chairman, not by the board and certainly not me,” Brady told Sky Sports News.
“If he decides he wants him at the club and wants to offer him a new contract, like he did a few months ago, then that’s what happens.
“The board support whatever decision he makes, and that’s the way it should be.”
OPINION
There is no doubt that Pellegrini will want to keep hold of Arnautovic. He was the difference at times last season and his contribution in the league was enormous for the Hammers. His hold-up play, quality on the ball and sheer presence is key for West Ham. We believe they should be pulling out all the stops to keep hold of him and if they have serious aspirations then they must fend off competition from China. Arnautovic is now in his prime and losing him would have a seriously damaging effect on the Hammers. Karren Brady must keep her promise and enable Pellegrini to determine his fate – Pellegrini did a solid job last season and they must back him all the way if they are to find more success. West Ham need a shake-up in the summer in terms of transfers – Lucas Perez and Andy Carroll are just two of the names that could depart and losing Arnautovic would leave Pellegrini with a slim amount of options up top.