While West Ham United issued a statement against what Zouma did, the club still played the defender against Watford and was set to play against Leicester City until the player fell “ill” at the last minute. The club has lost sponsorship deals because of their non-action and Zouma has also lost sponsorship contracts due to the images shown.

When confronted by reporters over the team’s lack of action, West Ham player Michail Antonio turned the tables and asked reporters if what Zouma did was worse than racism in the game. Now a group of West Ham supporters are showing their support for Kurt Zouma.

West Ham fans kick inflatable cat in video

A video has surfaced of West Ham fans singing songs of support and then kicking an inflatable cat for good measure. The video was also condemned by fans who were quoted as saying “Just not right is it. Hope he (Zouma) goes to jail” on social media.

The video was filmed at what appears to be a local bar and the fans, drinking, kicked and punched the cat while laughing. Zouma has already been fined for his actions and charges could still be pressed, but at the moment West Ham United seem to not be taking any action on their side except condemning what Zouma did.

Zouma was booed by both the West Ham and Watford supporters during The Hammers 1-0 win at home. What shocked many on social media was that Zouma was placed in the starting lineup for the match, to which many fans noted how “tone deaf” West Ham United was on the matter.

The incident of the player abusing an animal for kicks is still under investigation by Essex Police and West Ham United are “dealing with the matter internally”. Nonetheless in the court of public opinion there was a lot of backlash and Zouma felt the heat from the fans in the stands and on social media, with UFC fighter Jan Blachowicz issuing the disgraced soccer player a challenge.

Jan Blachowicz challenges Kurt Zouma on Twitter

Blachowicz took to Twitter to vent his frustration upon seeing the video tweeting, “If you are so tough mother****er, Kurt Zouma, try to kick me… What a piece of s***. No tolerance for animal cruelty.”

A spokesperson from the RSPCA stated: “This is a very upsetting video. It’s never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise.” The player has apologized for the video, “I want to apologize for my actions. There are no excuses for my behavior, which I sincerely regret” Zouma stated.

According to The Sun, West Ham United are considering dropping Zouma against Watford. The video shows the French player dropping the cat and kicking it in mid-air across his kitchen. Zouma later chases the cat around the dining room and throws a pair of shoes at it, while the cat tries to escape. The final image is of Zouma slapping the cat in the face.

West Ham United condemned the footage and many on social media have attacked the defender upon seeing the footage. Thousands of people have contacted the RSPCA and the player has hence apologized for the video.

Will there be any legal action against Kurt Zouma?

The player could face a criminal case if the RSPCA does pursue criminal action. The irony to all of this is that Zouma is an ambassador for French charity, Seed, which raises money for an animal shelter for big cats.

Zouma arrived at West Ham this season after loan spells at Everton, Stoke City, and in France. From 2014-2021 he was officially a Chelsea player, playing 99 Premier League games winning 5 titles with the club.

Rice is one of Europe’s rising stars, a versatile midfielder with a nice feel for the game. He can play as a stopper at the center of the pitch or right behind the striker thanks to his playmaking skills.

Thus, it’s not crazy to see that 3 Premier League giants are already following his steps, according to a report by The Guardian. So, he decided to turn down a contract extension with West Ham and take a step forward next season.

Transfer Rumors: 3 Premier League Teams Want To Sign Declan Rice

Chelsea

Chelsea, the reigning UEFA Champions League champions are looking to defend their title by making several additions in the summer. Thomas Tuchel has gotten a green light to spend and adding an up-and-coming 22-year-old star would be pretty good for them.

The Blues already have plenty of depth at the center of the pitch but Rice would be an upgrade over Jorginho and a perfect fit next to N’Golo Kanté. Also, he was actually in Chelsea’s academy before being released at 14.

Manchester United

Manchester United just completed the signing of Jadon Sancho so some would argue that they’re not exactly ready to spend more money. Then again, the team could break the bank and offer him a big wager anyway.

Also, The Guardian reports that The Red Devils could offer Jesse Lingard to try and sweeten the deal for The Hammers, as he’s been one of David Moyes’ go-to guys during his loan spell at London Stadium.

Manchester City

And, obviously, Manchester City will always be a team to watch when it comes to a big-name signing. They have an unlimited budget and are keen to defend their English Premier League title, and you know they’re never satisfied with their squad.

Bernardo Silva could be on his way out as he’s lost a lot of ground in Pep Guardiola’s pecking order. Pep is reportedly quite fond of Rice’s talent and he’d be enticed to join a team that’s constantly near the top of the table.