Nuno Espírito Santo Makes Building West Ham Identity His Top Focus
The new West Ham manager believes it will take time to establish a clear philosophy at West Ham United. Having previously managed Forest, who is getting accustomed to his new position, aims to connect with the club’s culture on an personal level.
Discovering the Team Identity
Appointed after the recent dismissal of the previous manager, Nuno revealed that longstanding staff have been filling him in about the club’s inner workings. Upon questioning about his interpretation of the famous “West Ham way”, he smiled and admitted that it carries various meanings—some see it as gung-ho football, while other emphasize fighting spirit.
“It’s exactly what I’m trying to understand day by day,” he explained. “It goes beyond knowing—it must be felt. It takes time to feel it. When it becomes part of us, we must make it part of us.”
He stressed that passion is what counts, not just intellectual understanding. When it comes to style and culture, Nuno admitted they are a long way off from making it a reality. “Simply saying the ‘West Ham way’—we must build it, let’s live it.”
Starting Period and Upcoming Tests
His time in charge began with an promising equal result on the road. Questioned about the proximity he is to establishing a team identity, he responded, “In my opinion not very close. It’s a tough task and demands a collective push at the club. But it’s a priority.”
There is often a desire from the fanbase for attacking play. David Moyes, historically achieving manager in recent times, later encountered scrutiny due to his defensive mindset. Subsequent managers had difficulties changing the on-field approach in the years following his exit.
Playing Philosophy and Team Structure
Now, it falls to Nuno to determine whether points are a higher priority than entertainment. West Ham have conceded a high number of goals in their first six Premier League games and currently sit in a low position.
“What influences the way we play is not only the head coach,” Nuno stated. “It depends on the players that influences how we play. We must achieve harmony between defense and attack. We cannot pushing up unbalanced, since that opens up spaces for the opposition. We have to defend and organize, yet still focusing on what we do once we have the ball.”
Player Availability
West Ham may see the return of first-team members in preparation for the fixture at Arsenal. Also, Nuno suggested a comeback chance for an experienced midfielder who was omitted in the previous game. He had a brief stint under the manager earlier, however his temporary stay was ended early.
