Confidence is a vital trait for any young striker trying to make their mark in professional football — and West Ham’s promising forward Callum Marshall certainly doesn’t lack it.
The contrast between life under Nuno Espirito Santo and Graham Potter has been stark, with the new boss making an instant impact at the London Stadium. Within just a week, Nuno has managed to inject belief, discipline, and aggression into a side that had looked lifeless and disjointed under his predecessor.
Potter’s short reign at West Ham had left fans frustrated and disengaged. His team lacked energy, intensity, and a clear identity, while his calm, almost detached demeanor only added to supporters’ irritation. Performances were sluggish and uninspired — and many believed the club had regressed further from the Julen Lopetegui era.
Nuno, however, has already started to turn that around. His passion on the touchline, clear tactical structure, and willingness to make tough decisions have brought a renewed sense of optimism. Even though the Hammers were beaten 2-0 by Arsenal, supporters saw signs of progress. The players fought harder, defended with more purpose, and showed greater unity — something few had seen during Potter’s tenure.
One of the biggest changes under Nuno has been his readiness to back young players. Potter had promised to give West Ham’s Academy products more opportunities but failed to follow through. Prospects like Ollie Scarles and Freddie Potts were quickly sidelined, and talented youngster Callum Marshall was left watching from the bench despite an impressive pre-season.
That has now changed. In the defeat to Arsenal, Nuno gave Marshall his long-awaited Premier League debut — and the 20-year-old made an immediate impression. Replacing the ineffective Niclas Füllkrug, Marshall looked lively, energetic, and eager to press. He even came close to scoring with a brave header that tested Arsenal’s back line.
After the match, Marshall couldn’t hide his relief — or his subtle frustration with how long it had taken to get his chance.
“This is what I want to do, so I’m happy the new manager has given me my Premier League debut and hopefully there’s more to come,” he told West Ham TV. “It’s been a long time coming, and I’m just thankful to the gaffer. Hopefully, when I get back from Northern Ireland duty, I can show him more of what I can do and bring some energy to the team.”
Marshall’s words seemed to contain a quiet dig at Potter, highlighting how overlooked he felt under the previous regime. But he was equally full of praise for Nuno, thanking the new head coach for trusting him and promising to repay that faith with performances and goals.
For a young striker full of determination and self-belief, this could be the start of something special. And under Nuno Espirito Santo — a manager unafraid to make bold choices — Callum Marshall finally looks set to get the platform he’s been waiting for.