“He’s Ready to Leave West Ham”- West Ham United star Is Considering Offers To Leave The Club: Why Should The Hammers Let Him Leave?
James Ward-Prowse Nearing West Ham Exit as Tactical Shift Under Nuno Leaves Him Sidelined
A growing belief is emerging at West Ham United that one of their key midfield signings, James Ward-Prowse, could soon be on his way out of the club.
The midfield maestro, once known for dictating the tempo with composure and precision, is now struggling to find his place under manager Nuno Espírito Santo.
Since Nuno’s arrival, a clear tactical shift has taken hold at the London Stadium. Ward-Prowse, who thrived in a possession-heavy system, no longer fits the high-energy, transition-based style the new manager demands.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, journalist Pete O’Rourke suggested that the former Southampton captain is unlikely to remain at West Ham beyond the January transfer window.
“Ward-Prowse seems resigned to leaving,” O’Rourke said. “Since Nuno came in, it’s become increasingly clear he doesn’t fit into the manager’s plans.
I don’t think he’ll feature much between now and January, and if he wants to go, I can’t see West Ham standing in his way. A move may be the best outcome for everyone involved.”
The 30-year-old midfielder has seen his game time diminish, his impact reduced, and his trademark creativity only surfacing in flashes. Reports suggest Ward-Prowse is already exploring his options ahead of the winter window.
From West Ham’s perspective, parting ways could also make financial sense. Operating under a sell-to-buy strategy, the club could use the funds from Ward-Prowse’s departure to invest in players better suited to Nuno’s system.
Their interest in Mateo Pellegrino and a recent €35 million offer for Pape Gueye indicate plans are already in motion to revamp the midfield.
A Tactical Mismatch in Need of Resolution
Nuno’s tactical philosophy prioritizes compactness, pace, and aggressive pressing. His midfielders are expected to cover ground quickly, recover possession, and shield the defence with intensity.
Ward-Prowse, while technically gifted and renowned for his set-piece quality, brings a more methodical, tempo-setting approach — one that increasingly looks out of sync with Nuno’s demands.
This isn’t a new issue. A brief spell working under Nuno at Nottingham Forest hinted at similar problems, and those same tactical mismatches have re-emerged at West Ham.
While no one questions Ward-Prowse’s professionalism or quality, he simply may not be the right fit anymore.
As West Ham look to reshape their midfield to better align with Nuno’s vision, Ward-Prowse’s exit feels less like a surprise and more like an inevitable next step.
With the January window approaching, both player and club appear prepared for an amicable separation — a move that could benefit all parties.