West Ham United could be forced into another managerial change before long if results fail to improve over the Christmas and New Year period, according to GMS.
Since taking over from Graham Potter in September, Nuno Espirito Santo has managed just two wins from his first 13 matches in charge. Saturday’s narrow 1-0 defeat at Fulham only added to the concern, leaving the Hammers four points from safety after they were unable to capitalise on Nottingham Forest’s home loss to Manchester City.
West Ham currently occupy 18th place in the table, and with a small gap beginning to open up between the bottom three and the rest of the league, the urgency for an upturn in form is growing. Nuno is under increasing pressure to deliver results quickly.
Questions raised over Nuno’s tactical approach
GMS understands that figures inside the club have been surprised by Nuno’s continued reluctance to start with a natural centre forward, even with limited attacking options available. Niklas Fullkrug is set to join AC Milan on loan during the winter window, while Callum Wilson’s wages rise sharply due to a pay-as-you-play clause in his contract.
Nuno feels the squad lacks a focal point up front and believes a traditional striker is essential to improving performances. He would be keen to use a clear number nine if one is brought in. The former Wolves and Nottingham Forest boss is also pushing for reinforcements in central midfield and defence when the January window opens, as he looks to steer West Ham away from relegation trouble.
Despite his confidence that several issues can be addressed through recruitment, Nuno’s position is far from secure as the club heads toward 2026.
Bilic among possible alternatives
If West Ham decide to make another change in the dugout, Slaven Bilic is expected to be considered. The former Hammers player and manager has been without a club since leaving Al-Fateh in 2024, and the 57-year-old is believed to have been suggested previously by co-owner David Sullivan following Potter’s exit.