A forgotten West Ham player may be signalling a fresh start after unveiling a bold new look — just as Nuno Espírito Santo prepares to make three crucial selection calls ahead of the Brentford clash.
The Hammers host Brentford at the London Stadium on Monday in what already feels like a pivotal early-season relegation six-pointer.
Such is the extent of West Ham’s struggles this term that even victory may not be enough to lift them out of the bottom three. Their poor goal difference means they’d need a 4-0 win just to move above Brentford and Burnley.
Despite taking just one point from his first two matches, Nuno’s early impact has been positive. A 1-1 draw at Everton and a battling 2-0 defeat at Arsenal showed signs of discipline, effort and renewed focus — but the upcoming fixtures could define the direction of their campaign.
Nuno’s big calls for Brentford
Following the Brentford clash, the Hammers travel to Leeds before home ties against Newcastle and Burnley ahead of the November break. Nuno will be targeting at least seven or eight points from that run, starting with a vital win on Monday.
Since his arrival, the Portuguese coach has impressed with his intensity, tactical clarity and willingness to make tough choices. Several big names have already felt the consequences.
James Ward-Prowse, once an automatic starter under Graham Potter, was immediately dropped from the matchday squad. Jean-Clair Todibo and Callum Wilson have also experienced Nuno’s ruthless streak.
Todibo’s case is particularly intriguing. Signed permanently for £32 million after a disappointing loan spell, the French defender has barely featured since a fallout with Potter over discipline. Illness kept him out of Nuno’s first game, but when fit again for Arsenal, he was still omitted — fuelling speculation he’ll be among the first to leave in January.
Fresh haircut, fresh start?
However, Todibo may be looking to draw a line under the past. The centre-back has debuted a new look — trading his signature long blonde curls for a sharp buzz cut — and was seen fully involved in training ahead of the Brentford match.
With Nuno promising a “clean slate” for every player, fans are wondering whether Todibo’s transformation marks the beginning of his redemption arc or just a symbolic gesture before another snub.
Selection dilemmas ahead of Brentford
Nuno’s first major decision comes up front. Niclas Füllkrug has been ruled out through injury, leaving limited options. Callum Wilson, overlooked at Arsenal, could return to the lineup, while Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paquetá, or even youngster Callum Marshall may be considered in attack.
His second big call is the potential return of Tomas Souček. The Czech midfielder’s physicality and aggression could be key to addressing the issues Nuno has highlighted in West Ham’s midfield battles. If Souček can rediscover his box-to-box form, it might be the spark the Hammers desperately need.
Finally, all eyes will be on whether Todibo is recalled to the matchday squad. With Konstantinos Mavropanos coming under criticism for recent defensive lapses, there’s a real chance for the Frenchman to step back in — and prove he deserves a place in Nuno’s rebuild.
As for his new haircut? Whether it signals a genuine change or just another chapter in his troubled West Ham spell, fans won’t have to wait long to find out.