Javier Hernandez: His 2017 Season Performance & Impact

Let's dive into the world of Javier Hernandez, or as many of you know him, Chicharito! In this article, we're going to break down his 2017 season. We’ll look at his performance, his impact on his team, and some interesting facts about this legendary player. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting to know the Little Pea, there’s something here for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the highs and lows of Chicharito's 2017 journey!

A Look Back at Javier Hernandez's Career Before 2017

Before we zoom in on 2017, let's rewind a bit and appreciate the awesome career Chicharito had built up until then. Javier Hernandez burst onto the scene with Chivas Guadalajara, quickly becoming a fan favorite with his knack for finding the back of the net. His incredible talent didn't stay hidden for long, and soon enough, Manchester United came calling. Imagine that – going from Mexico to one of the biggest clubs in the world! At United, he became known as a super-sub, always ready to make an impact with his clinical finishing and relentless work rate. Scoring crucial goals in the Premier League and Champions League, he won the hearts of fans worldwide.

After his stint at Manchester United, Chicharito ventured to Real Madrid on loan, adding another prestigious club to his resume. Though his time there was relatively short, he still managed to show glimpses of his goal-scoring prowess. Next up was a move to Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, where he truly blossomed. In the Bundesliga, Hernandez proved he could be a consistent starter, banging in goals left and right and becoming a key player for the team. His time in Germany solidified his reputation as a top-class striker, capable of performing at the highest level. All these experiences shaped him, adding layers to his game and preparing him for whatever challenges lay ahead, including the 2017 season we're about to dissect. His journey is a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to the beautiful game. Isn’t it fascinating to see how players evolve and adapt across different leagues and cultures? Chicharito's career is a perfect example of that!

Javier Hernandez Joins West Ham United

The big news of 2017 was Javier Hernandez making his move to West Ham United. After his successful spell in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen, Premier League fans were thrilled to see him back in England. West Ham supporters, in particular, were buzzing with excitement, hoping that Chicharito would be the goal-scoring solution they had been longing for. The transfer fee was a significant investment for the Hammers, reflecting the high expectations placed on the Mexican striker. Everyone was eager to see how he would fit into the team and whether he could replicate his previous goal-scoring form in the Premier League. The pressure was on, but Chicharito, known for his cool demeanor and confidence, seemed ready for the challenge. His arrival brought a renewed sense of optimism to the club, and fans were dreaming of a successful season ahead with their new star striker leading the line.

Performance and Statistics in 2017

In 2017, Javier Hernandez's performance for West Ham United was a mixed bag. He played a total of 26 matches across all competitions, which included Premier League appearances and cup games. During these matches, he managed to score 8 goals. While this wasn't a bad return, it also wasn't quite the prolific goal-scoring form that many fans had hoped for, especially considering his reputation. His minutes per goal ratio was decent, but there was a sense that he could have contributed more consistently. There were periods where he struggled to find the back of the net, and the team's overall struggles also impacted his performance. Despite his efforts and occasional flashes of brilliance, he didn't quite reach the heights expected of him. However, it's important to remember that adapting to a new team and system takes time, and there were glimpses of the Chicharito of old, hinting at what he could bring to the table in the future.

Key Moments and Highlights

Despite the overall inconsistencies, Javier Hernandez had some standout moments in 2017 that are worth highlighting. One notable moment was his brace against Southampton in August. In this match, he showed his predatory instincts in the box, scoring two classic Chicharito goals that had fans jumping out of their seats. Another memorable moment was his goal against Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup. Although West Ham eventually lost the game, his goal was a testament to his ability to perform against top opposition. These moments reminded everyone of his quality and what he was capable of when given the opportunity. While these highlights were scattered throughout the year, they provided glimpses of the player West Ham had invested in and offered hope for more consistent performances in the future. It’s these moments of brilliance that keep fans coming back for more, isn’t it? The thrill of seeing a player like Chicharito find the back of the net is undeniable.

Impact on West Ham United

Javier Hernandez's arrival at West Ham United was expected to bring a significant boost to their attacking prowess, but his impact in 2017 was somewhat limited. While he did contribute with goals, his overall influence on the team's performance was not as transformative as many had hoped. West Ham struggled to find consistency throughout the season, and Chicharito's integration into the team was not always seamless. There were tactical challenges in accommodating his style of play, and the team's overall form often overshadowed his individual contributions. However, his presence did provide a focal point in attack, and his experience and work ethic were valuable assets to the squad. Despite the challenges, there were moments where his quality shone through, reminding everyone of the potential impact he could have when the team clicked collectively.

Challenges and Obstacles Faced

In 2017, Javier Hernandez faced several challenges and obstacles that impacted his performance at West Ham United. Adapting to a new team and manager always takes time, and he had to adjust to a different style of play compared to what he was used to in Germany. The Premier League's physicality and intensity also posed a challenge, requiring him to adapt his game. Furthermore, West Ham's overall struggles as a team made it difficult for him to thrive consistently. Injuries also played a part, disrupting his rhythm and preventing him from building momentum. Despite these obstacles, he remained professional and committed, always giving his best effort on the pitch. Overcoming these challenges required resilience and determination, qualities that Chicharito has always possessed throughout his career. It's never easy adjusting to a new environment, and the combination of these factors made 2017 a particularly challenging year for him.

Fan and Media Reception

The fan and media reception to Javier Hernandez's performance in 2017 was mixed. West Ham fans were initially excited about his arrival, hoping he would be the prolific goal scorer they had been craving. However, as the season progressed, some fans grew frustrated with his inconsistent performances and the team's overall struggles. The media also had varying opinions, with some praising his work ethic and goal-scoring instincts, while others criticized his lack of impact in certain games. Overall, there was a sense that he hadn't quite lived up to the high expectations that had been set upon his arrival. Despite the mixed reception, Chicharito remained a popular figure among many fans, who appreciated his effort and dedication to the team. It's always tough when expectations are sky-high, and the reality doesn't quite match up, but that's part and parcel of being a professional footballer, right?

Comparison to Previous Seasons

When we compare Javier Hernandez's 2017 season to his previous seasons, there's a noticeable difference in his goal-scoring output and overall impact. In his prime years at Manchester United and Bayer Leverkusen, he was known for his clinical finishing and ability to score crucial goals consistently. However, in 2017, his goal-scoring rate was lower compared to those peak seasons. While he still showed glimpses of his quality, he wasn't as prolific or influential as he had been in the past. Factors such as adapting to a new team, tactical adjustments, and the team's overall performance likely contributed to this difference. Despite this, it's important to remember that every season is different, and players go through peaks and valleys in their careers. While 2017 may not have been his best season statistically, it was still a valuable learning experience for him as he continued to adapt and evolve as a player.

The Future for Javier Hernandez

Looking ahead, the future for Javier Hernandez after 2017 was full of possibilities. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained a valuable asset to any team with his experience, work ethic, and goal-scoring instincts. Whether he stayed at West Ham United or moved to another club, he had the potential to continue contributing at a high level. His ability to find the back of the net and his dedication to the game made him a player that teams would always be interested in. As he continued to adapt and refine his game, he had the opportunity to prove himself and make a significant impact wherever he played. The journey of a footballer is always evolving, and Chicharito's story was far from over. With his talent and determination, he had the potential to write many more chapters in his illustrious career. What do you guys think? Where would his career take him next? Exciting to think about, isn't it?