Key Takeaways:
- West Ham have considered Slaven Bilic as a potential interim manager, with Nuno Espírito Santo’s financial requirements viewed as prohibitively high
- Graham Potter remained in charge for the trip to Everton next Monday, despite mounting pressure following Saturday’s defeat to Crystal Palace
- An estimated 3,000 supporters protested against David Sullivan and Karren Brady ahead of the Palace match, with further demonstrations planned
Managerial Uncertainty at the London Stadium
Uncertainty continues to loom over the future of West Ham manager Graham Potter following the club’s lacklustre start to the season and defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday. David Sullivan, the club’s principal shareholder, is reportedly exploring alternatives but has yet to make a definitive move, leading to Potter retaining his position for the forthcoming visit to Everton next Monday.
Potter’s tenure has come under increasing scrutiny, with the former Chelsea manager managing just six wins from 25 matches since his appointment last January. West Ham currently sit 19th in the table after four losses from their opening five league encounters, intensifying pressure on the 50-year-old’s leadership.
With concerns over Nuno's finances, the door could open for Slaven Bilic to return to West Ham.
People around David Sullivan are pushing him to appoint Bilic, who has already assessed the squad and started to think about his backroom staff.
[@JacobSteinberg] #WHUFC #COYI pic.twitter.com/xTrd7SrtsN
— West Ham News & Views (@WestHamViews_) September 22, 2025
Bilic Emerges as an Alternative Amid Nuno Contract Concerns
While informal discussions have taken place with former Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo concerning the managerial vacancy, there are reservations regarding his financial expectations. Sources indicate that Nuno may await alternative offers if his terms are not met.
In parallel, influential figures around Sullivan have advocated a return for Slaven Bilic on a short-term basis. The 57-year-old Croat, who previously managed West Ham between 2015 and 2017 and has been out of work since departing Al-Fateh last year, is considered capable of energising the squad. Bilic is reportedly open to resuming his role, assessing the current West Ham squad, and contemplating potential additions to his backroom staff.
Possible Backroom Reshuffle
Bilic has contemplated inviting former club captain Mark Noble, currently the sporting director, to collaborate with him, despite Noble not displaying a strong inclination towards coaching. Additionally, he is considering involving James Collins, an ex-West Ham defender, in his prospective team.
Gary O’Neil, previously with Wolves and a former West Ham midfielder, has also expressed interest in the job. However, Sullivan remains firm that only candidates with Premier League managerial experience will be seriously considered.
| Manager | Previous Club | Relevant Experience | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graham Potter | Chelsea | Premier League, FA Cup | Current Manager |
| Nuno Espírito Santo | Nottingham Forest | Premier League, EFL Championship | Financial demands cited as obstacle |
| Slaven Bilic | Al-Fateh (Saudi Pro League) | Premier League, EFL Championship | Considered for interim role |
| Gary O’Neil | Wolves | Premier League | Interested in role |
Boardroom Tension and Fan Discontent
The board remains divided, with many believing Potter’s departure is overdue, although the final call rests with David Sullivan. The club’s reluctance to dismiss Potter appears motivated by a desire to secure a successor prior to making any changes. There is speculation that Potter could remain at the helm until the international break next month, with fixtures against Everton and Arsenal in the interim.
Potter faces criticism for his inability to establish defensive solidity, as evidenced by West Ham conceding seven goals from corners this campaign, and the team’s disorganised performances have perplexed many observers. The quality of player recruitment during the summer window is also under the microscope.
Should Potter depart, recruitment chief Kyle Macaulay is also expected to exit. Both Potter and Macaulay could point to working with constrained finances and an inherited, ageing squad from Julen Lopetegui.
Supporters are increasingly vocal in their dissatisfaction, with an estimated 3,000 fans demonstrating against Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady prior to the Palace fixture, and further protests anticipated.
