Nuno Espirito Santo failed by David Sullivan as West Ham seek new staff members
West Ham’s appointment of Nuno Espirito Santo seemed rushed after Graham Potter was dismissed just hours earlier.
Potter was sacked by Karren Brady over the phone while he was on his way into Rush Green to take first-team training.
Nuno was appointed just hours later and took over Potter’s duties, with the players surprised by the sudden change.
The change appeared to pay off, with West Ham drawing 1-1 with Everton, but the Hammers’ new boss still has plenty to sort before they can get back to their best.
Nuno Espirito Santo forced to wait until international break for staff
Multiple managerial candidates were interviewed by Sullivan before the sudden sacking of Potter, with the Welshman seemingly well prepared for his exit.
The former Chelsea boss was expected to be given the game against the Toffees to prove himself, and even spoke at the pre-match press conference.
Sullivan had been willing to wait for Nuno to agree to the new project, with reported issues getting in their coaching staff.
The 51-year-old has been without his regular staff for almost a week now, and he doesn’t seem any closer to reaching a deal for any of them.
According to the Standard on October 2, West Ham expect to have backroom staff in place by the end of the international break.
- Nuno is likely waiting on the appointment of Rui Pedro Silva and Julio Figueroa, who have both been regular assistant coaches for him in the past
- Goalkeeping coach Rui Barbosa could also be brought in after Casper Ankergen left with Potter
Even though negotiations are ongoing, it’s unlikely that Nuno will have any backroom members in place against Arsenal.
With Sullivan having reportedly met with potential new managers over a week before Potter’s sacking, the lack of preparation won’t impress fans or Nuno.
Nuno’s former staff are all former free agents following their departure from Nottingham Forest, and West Ham’s unwillingness to pay compensation to the Reds could be holding up the moves.
Coaching staff delays could cost West Ham vs Arsenal
Concerns over the Hammers’ defending has been criticised in recent weeks, having already conceded 14.
West Ham have now conceded eight from corners, and Arsenal have shown that they can be powerhouses from set pieces.
Nuno has been working hard this week to sort out the Hammers’ defensive issues, but without his new staff, he won’t be able to find a long-term solution.
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Mikel Arteta’s side score another goal from a corner on Saturday, which could end up deciding the game.
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