West Ham Appoint Nuno Espirito Santo After Sacking Graham Potter Amid Relegation Fears

West Ham United have sacked Graham Potter after just nine months in charge and moved swiftly to appoint Nuno Espirito Santo as the club’s new head coach, just 18 days after his dismissal from Nottingham Forest.

The Hammers, currently second-bottom in the Premier League, made the change after a run of poor results, culminating in last weekend’s 2-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace. Sources inside the club confirmed that the decision to seek a replacement was made two weeks ago following a heavy 3-0 loss to Tottenham.

Nuno, West Ham’s top target, accepted the role after a face-to-face meeting with chairman David Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady. He was reportedly eager to start work immediately, despite the club’s upcoming fixtures away to Everton and Arsenal before the international break.

Although Potter remained professional and continued preparations for Monday night’s clash with Everton, the writing had been on the wall. While some players were keen for him to stay, others felt a change was necessary.

Potter, whose contract ran until 2027, had a break clause that limits West Ham’s financial obligations. He was formally dismissed on Saturday morning after arriving for training, in what sources described as a calm atmosphere at the training ground.

Sullivan had initially harboured doubts about hiring Potter but was persuaded by other influential voices at the club. With the team sitting in 19th place and averaging nearly three goals conceded per game—including seven from set-pieces—fears of relegation forced action.

Nuno, who also previously managed Wolves and Tottenham, was available and interested. His family base in London was said to be a factor, and he was open to taking over immediately.

Talks with his agent Jorge Mendes accelerated after Potter’s final match. While two other unnamed candidates were also considered—and Slaven Bilic expressed interest in a short-term return—Sullivan ultimately chose Nuno for the long term.

Nuno inherits a squad lacking confidence and structure. His first priority will be fixing West Ham’s defensive frailties. Managing internal club dynamics will also be key, with sources noting that only David Moyes has successfully navigated both on-field success and the club’s complicated internal politics in recent years.

The board remains under pressure from fans, many of whom see deeper issues at the club that go beyond managerial appointments.