On 23 July 2007, after nine years at Arsenal, Ljungberg joined London rivals West Ham United on a four-year contract, making West Ham United only the third professional club in Ljungberg's career.
Ljungberg made his West Ham United debut on the opening day of the 2007/2008 Premier League season, in West Ham's 0-2 home defeat by Manchester City on 11 August, a game in which he was also captain.
After seven months at the club, Ljungberg finally scored his first goal for West Ham in the home match against Birmingham city on 9 February 2008, putting West Ham 1-0 up, with the game finishing at 1-1. Ljungberg also scored away at Sunderland a month later in a 1-2 defeat, being his final goal for the club.
In his last West Ham game of the season, Newcastle United player Steven Taylor landed on top of Ljungberg, consequently breaking his ribs. The injury sidelined Ljungberg for the rest of the season.
In May, it was reported that Ljungberg was offered £3m to tear up his contract. This was quickly dismissed by both Ljungberg's agents, Claes Elefalk and Scott Duxbury, West Ham's chief executive.
In June 2008, Ljungberg retired from the Swedish National team stating, "The simple fact is the physical strain of playing on the national team and in club football for such a long time has finally taken its toll. During this time, Ljungberg was linked to Greek club, Olympiakos.
People believed West Ham was eager to off-load the injury prone Ljungberg. The link to Olympiakos was quickly dismissed by Ljungberg's agent, Claes Elefalk.
Following the start of training camp, Ljungberg was no where to be seen. Many speculated a transfer was in the works despite Elefalk claims that Ljungberg was to return. Days later, Ljungberg agreed to terminate his contract only after one year into the four year deal for a sum of £6 million.
Ljungberg made a statement, "I gave my all at West Ham and enjoyed my time there but the decision is the best for the both of us. Now, I will take my time to consider my football future." Thus, ending Ljungberg's illustrious career in the Premier League.
After Ljungberg's West Ham exit, fans and sport pundits alike speculated about Ljungberg's future. On 8 August, Ljungberg was seen in Los Angles fueling rumors of a move to LA Galaxy which was quickly dismissed.
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