Determination and perseverance are the cornerstones of Max Kilman’s remarkable journey from non-league football to the Premier League. The 27-year-old defender credits his unwavering dedication to hard work as the key factor in his rise to success, which has earned him a £40million move to West Ham United.
Kilman’s path to the top has been far from ordinary. He was playing amateur football while studying for a degree in business and sport management when he was spotted by Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2018. The club’s smart decision to insert a sell-on clause in his contract has now yielded a “life-changing” sum for his former club, Maidenhead.
Max Kilman, 27, credits hard work – and his mum – helped propel him through his career
Kilman’s humility is evident as he deflects attention from his role in Maidenhead’s windfall, instead focusing on the pressure to justify his substantial price tag. “A [transfer] valuation is a valuation, but my focus is on doing my best, and that’s how I’ve always been,” he says.
The defender’s connection to West Ham extends beyond his recent transfer. He lived in the area until he was nine years old, and his former manager at Maidenhead, Alan Devonshire, is a West Ham legend who made over 300 appearances for the club.
Kilman’s desire to reunite with Julen Lopetegui, his former Wolves boss, was a significant factor in his move to West Ham. The Spanish manager’s high-intensity training methods and emphasis on maximum effort are well-suited to Kilman’s work ethic.
New West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui previously worked with Kilman at Wolves
Kilman’s Ukrainian heritage, through his parents, has also played a significant role in shaping his career. His father, Alex, who passed away in 2020, was instrumental in his development, while his mother, Maria, ensured he completed his degree as a safety net.
The defender’s ambition to play for England remains strong, despite being ineligible to represent Ukraine due to his futsal caps for England between the ages of 18 and 21. Kilman’s determination to give his all for West Ham and potentially earn an England call-up is unwavering.
When asked what West Ham fans can expect from him this season, Kilman’s response is simple: “Hard work, 110 per cent commitment, and giving it my best all the time.”