West Ham United have parted ways with head coach Graham Potter after a disappointing start to the new campaign left the club 19th in the Premier League with just three points from their first five games.
The decision ends Potter’s short tenure, just eight months after he took over at the London Stadium in January, with the club admitting that results and performances “fell short of expectations” both at the tail end of last season and in the opening weeks of this one.
Official Club Statement
In a statement released on Saturday, West Ham confirmed Potter’s departure along with his entire backroom staff. Assistant manager Bruno Saltor, coaches Billy Reid and Narcís Pèlach, lead goalkeeper coach Casper Ankergren, and goalkeeper coach Linus Kandolin have all left their posts with immediate effect.
The club thanked Potter and his team for their work and confirmed that the process to find a new head coach is already underway. No further comments were made about a timeline for the next appointment.
Why the Change Happened
The decision follows a 2-1 home defeat to Crystal Palace, which saw frustration spill over among supporters. Boos rang around the London Stadium as West Ham slumped to 19th place, with only one win from five league fixtures.
The board acknowledged that results dating back to last season had created an “unacceptable trajectory” and felt a managerial change was necessary to turn things around quickly and avoid being dragged into a prolonged relegation battle.
Potter’s Record at West Ham
Potter’s time in East London proved challenging. Across all competitions, he managed just six wins in 25 matches, and last season’s 14th-place finish reflected the club’s struggles to maintain consistency.
The 2025/26 campaign began poorly with four defeats in the first five league fixtures, further intensifying pressure on the 50-year-old coach.
Context of His Appointment
Potter was brought in on a two-and-a-half-year contract in January 2025, replacing Julen Lopetegui with the hope of bringing stability and a clear playing philosophy. It was his first job since leaving Chelsea in 2023, but results and performances never quite convinced the West Ham faithful.
Fan Sentiment Turned Sour
Discontent had been building for several months, with home supporters expressing concerns over the team’s lack of urgency and attacking threat. The loss to Palace amplified calls for change, with chants from the stands clearly signalling a breakdown in trust between fans and the coaching team.
Who Could Replace Him?
Early reports suggest Nuno Espírito Santo is a frontrunner for the role, with former Hammers boss Slaven Bilić and Gary O’Neil also under consideration. The club is expected to act quickly to have a replacement in place ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
What It Means for the Season
West Ham now face an important reset as they prepare for a tricky away trip to Everton. The new manager will inherit a team struggling defensively and in front of goal, needing quick results to escape the relegation zone and restore confidence.
Key Numbers at a Glance
- League Position: 19th after five games
- Points: 3
- Record Under Potter: 6 wins in 25 games (all competitions)
- Backroom Staff Departures: Saltor, Reid, Pèlach, Ankergren, Kandolin
What’s Next
The West Ham board is accelerating its recruitment process, with the priority being a quick appointment to stabilize the team’s performances. A positive result at Goodison Park could provide the perfect springboard for whoever takes charge next.
Quick FAQs
Why was Graham Potter sacked?
Results and performances had fallen below expectations for several months, leaving West Ham 19th after five matches this season.
How long was Potter in charge?
He managed the club for around eight months, joining in January 2025.
Who has left with him?
His entire backroom staff, including assistants and goalkeeping coaches, have departed.
Who could be next?
Nuno Espírito Santo is the early favourite, with Slaven Bilić and Gary O’Neil also in the conversation.
What’s the next game?
West Ham travel to Everton for a must-win clash as they try to move out of the relegation zone.
