West Ham have confirmed the signing of Pablo Zabaleta.
The Argentine was released by Manchester City earlier this week and the Hammers wasted no time in securing the services of the 32-year-old Argentine.
“West Ham United are proud and delighted to announce Pablo Zabaleta as the Club’s first signing of the summer,” a statement read on West Ham’s official website.
“The highly-decorated and hugely-experienced Argentina international full-back will join the Hammers on a two-year deal on 1 July, when his contract with Manchester City expires.
“A fine defender and respected leader, Zabaleta won two Premier League titles and four other trophies during nine outstanding seasons with the Citizens.
“Now, he is hoping to bring his wide-ranging and undoubted qualities to London Stadium, where is looking forward to starting a new and successful chapter in his storied career in Claret and Blue.”
On the switch to the London Stadium, Zabaleta said: “This is an absolute pleasure to be part of West Ham United Football Club.
“I hope I can give you good moments. Of course, I come to the Club to enjoy myself and hopefully we can have a very successful time.
“Sometimes a new challenge is all you need as a person and as a player. I thought my time at City was done. It’s been a fantastic nine years, absolutely brilliant.
“Manchester City gave me the opportunity to come to this wonderful league, the Premier League, something I’ve been enjoying a lot as a player and of course for me it was probably the right time to move on.
“Also, as a player, I thought I wanted to keep playing in the Premier League. For me, after being in this country for so long, this is a new challenge for me in the Premier League and I’m ready for it and looking forward to it.”
Zabaleta was a fan favourite at Manchester City and averaged more tackles per 90 (3.5) of any defender to make 20 or more Premier League appearances this season.
For more stats on Pablo Zabaleta, click here to view his WhoScored player page
