Konstantinos Mavropanos was ultimately disappointed with West Ham’s defeat to Manchester City but he was pleased with the performance.

Defensively, West Ham have been woeful all season. They conceded an abysmal 74 goals in the Premier League this season – the most in their history. However, while the other centre-backs have got worse and worse over the course of the season, Konstantinos Mavropanos has steadily improved.

He has become absolutely vital to the back line and he is probably the only central defender that should be starting consistently next season. His recent injury has coincided with multiple heavy defeats but he was happy to get one game in before the season ended, claiming that the team defended well despite conceding 3 goals.

“I am happy to be back on the pitch obviously, and it was nice to play the last game of the season and try to help the team,” Mavropanos confirmed to the official site.

“We did everything we could, but we couldn’t get a result. Throughout the season we have had some ups and downs, and we want to make sure we come back stronger [next season].”

“Against these types of teams you have to be a bit stronger defensively, and this is what we tried to do. We managed to get a goal [before half-time] and tried to get back into the game, but it was really difficult after their third goal.”

“I thought we were really strong at the back and were a little bit unlucky to concede a goal in the second minute. That made our work a bit more difficult, but we gave our best and we defended as hard and to the best we could.”

While the season didn’t go fully to plan, for Mavropanos it was one of development and he is hopeful that he and the team can come back stronger next season. “Of course, we as a team wanted to get into the European positions, but we didn’t make it. On a personal level, I have tried to help the team and work as hard as I can every day to try and get better.”

“It feels very nice to be back playing in the Premier League and of course with West Ham.”

“I think with a long season and having so many games, it affects you mentally and physically, so every player needs some time off. Some players will play in the [UEFA] Euro 2024 and others in the Copa America. I think we need to get the energy back and come back stronger.”