Disasi reveals Nuno talk after West Ham loan move

Axel Disasi says he told Nuno Espírito Santo he was ready “mentally and physically” before being thrown straight into West Ham’s starting line-up following his January loan move from Chelsea.

The 27-year-old centre-back joined the Hammers for the remainder of the season after a difficult spell at Stamford Bridge. Having spent the second half of last term on loan at Aston Villa, Disasi had not featured at all this campaign before making his debut in a 2-0 win at Burnley on 7 February 2026.

Despite making an immediate impact in defence, Disasi admits he has one small frustration since arriving at the London Stadium — a lack of goals.

Speaking on the club’s Iron Cast podcast, he joked:

“I hope to get some goals! At the moment, I’m a little frustrated because I’m doing a lot of blocking during set pieces.

“But I need to get some goals myself! Honestly, I’m calm and happy to be here. I had a great discussion with the coach before the game. He asked me how I felt, and I told him I felt good both mentally and physically. He put me straight into the line-up.”

Having followed West Ham’s defensive struggles earlier in the season, Disasi’s return to competitive action has brought much-needed stability. In three appearances so far, he has helped tighten a back line that had been under consistent pressure.

Nuno Espírito Santo opted for immediate trust rather than easing Disasi in gradually. The decision has coincided with an upturn in form.

Since their defeat to Nottingham Forest on 6 January, West Ham have won three of their last five Premier League matches. They now sit just three points from safety, having significantly narrowed the gap in recent weeks.

However, it remains too early to declare the relegation fight over. Defensive solidity must be sustained, particularly with decisive fixtures approaching.

Crysencio Summerville’s recent scoring run has also played a major role in the resurgence, with the winger netting six goals in his last seven matches across competitions.

West Ham face Bournemouth on 22 February 2026, a match that could further define their survival hopes. Nuno is expected to keep faith with Disasi at the heart of defence.

Much will depend on maintaining defensive organisation while capitalising on attacking form. A continued run of positive results would significantly shift the relegation landscape.

Can Disasi anchor West Ham’s survival push in the decisive months ahead?