admin“Impossible because”- Paul Merson slams West Ham for appointing Nuno and explains why it won’t work
Paul Merson Questions Nuno Espirito Santo’s Fit at West Ham After Potter Sacking
Paul Merson has criticised West Ham United’s board for appointing Nuno Espirito Santo as Graham Potter’s replacement, arguing that the former Nottingham Forest boss may not be the right fit for the club.
Potter Dismissed After Poor Run
Graham Potter was officially dismissed following West Ham’s 2-1 home loss to Crystal Palace, a result that capped a run of disappointing performances.
Though the timing of the decision—just two days before their next match—raised eyebrows, former Hammer Joe Cole believes the move was justified.
Cole stated, “The timing is unusual two days before a game, but the writing was on the wall. Losing three London derbies the way they did wasn’t good enough.
Potter also didn’t get the support he needed, especially in the recent transfer window.”
Potter’s record of 0.92 points per game painted a grim picture, and over a full season, that form would typically lead to relegation. The defeat to Palace appeared to be the final straw.
Nuno’s Appointment Raises Questions
West Ham moved quickly, naming Nuno Espirito Santo as the new manager on Saturday evening.
Though Nuno led Forest to European football last season and boasts strong managerial credentials, not everyone is convinced—especially Paul Merson.
Speaking after the announcement, the former Arsenal star expressed doubts: “They play Monday, so it’s like getting sacked on a Thursday.
I don’t get the timing. And I don’t get the Nuno appointment. I like him, I think he did well at Forest, but the style he used there won’t suit West Ham.”
Merson elaborated that Forest thrived with a solid back line and a fast, counterattacking front line—tactics he feels won’t work with West Ham’s current squad. “West Ham have conceded far too many goals this season, and their defenders have been exposed repeatedly. Forest’s defenders were solid last year. I just don’t see the fit.”
Backing Nuno Is Key
Merson’s concerns about West Ham’s defensive struggles are backed up by the numbers—the club has already conceded 13 goals this season, tied for the most in the Premier League. Clearly, Nuno will need support from the board if he’s to reshape the squad, especially in the January transfer window.
Despite Merson’s doubts, it’s perhaps premature to count Nuno out. The Portuguese manager brings top-flight experience and earned an average of 1.48 points per game at Forest, transforming them from relegation candidates into Europa League qualifiers.
His first challenge will be Monday night’s clash away at Everton, as West Ham prepare for their first visit to the Hill Dickinson Stadium under new management.
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