Nuno can do something that Julen Lopetegui and Graham Potter could never in West Ham vs Bournemouth
Nuno Espirito Santo will attempt to continue West Ham’s recovery when his side travels to take on Bournemouth on Saturday.
West Ham beat Burnley 3-2 before the international break, building on an encouraging victory over Newcastle United at the London Stadium.
The Hammers had been without a win since August before the visit of the Magpies, but looked like a completely refreshed team in the 3-1 win.
Bournemouth are the favourites to beat West Ham on 22 November, however, despite the Cherries having lost their previous two Premier League fixtures.
But West Ham have not lost to Bournemouth in six years, which will provide confidence for Nuno‘s team.
West Ham can make it three consecutive Premier League victories
Graham Potter was sacked by West Ham at the end of September, after the Englishman had led the Hammers to five losses from their opening six games of the season.
The Englishman only arrived in January, but failed to make any impression in his short time at the London Stadium.
In fairness, the former Chelsea boss had inherited a team seriously struggling. Julen Lopetegui had led West Ham to just seven wins from 22 games across all competitions, leaving the Hammers 14th in the Premier League.
Incredibly, over the course of both managers’ time at the London Stadium, neither managed to win three consecutive Premier League games – a feat that Nuno could achieve already on Saturday.
The key matchups for West Ham vs Bournemouth
The obvious danger from Bournemouth comes in the form of Antoine Semenyo.
The winger, who is expected to be the subject of significant interest elsewhere next year, has scored six goals and provided three assists in just 11 Premier League appearances this season.
However, the 25-year-old may well be unavailable for the match after suffering an ankle strain while on international duty with Ghana.
| Antoine Semenyo | Premier League 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 11 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Chances created | 11 |
| Successful dribbles | 21 |
| Duels won | 72 |
Evanilson will likely start up front for the Cherries, and the Brazilian will have to be marshalled closely, after scoring twice at the London Stadium last season.
Alex Scott plays at the head of the midfield for Iraola and is often key in providing for the likes of Semenyo and Evanilson.
Although Freddie Potts looks set to miss the clash, Nuno will need to ensure his midfield is set up to keep close tabs on the England youth international.
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