Slaven Bilic’s West Ham return in doubt due to ‘hugely important’ factor
Slaven Bilic has been linked with a return to West Ham as Graham Potter’s time in East London comes to a close.
Potter is expected to be sacked by West Ham during the October international break, though that timeline could be brought forward should they fall to a heavy defeat against Everton.
David Sullivan is being pushed to appoint Bilic as his replacement by his fellow Hammers chiefs, with supporters pushing for change.
The Irons appear to be covering all angles in their search for a potential new boss, and Bilic’s chances could be hindered by his disappointing managerial spells since leaving the London Stadium.
Gary O’Neil and Nuno Espirito Santo to be favoured over Slaven Bilic
Bilic is joined by Nuno Espirito Santo as the leading candidates for the West Ham job, but complications with the Portuguese manager’s wages could stall talks.
The ex-Hammers manager has struggled to nail down a long-term home since departing East London, with unsuccessful spells in the Championship and abroad.
Gary O’Neil has been eyed as an alternative option for Sullivan, who has had more success than the Croatian in recent seasons.
- Bilic has managed five different clubs in his eight years since leaving the Hammers
- He has failed to last more than one season at each of those clubs
- The Croatian played 48 games for the Hammers between 1995 and 1997
According to The Athletic on 26 September, Bilic believes he has unfinished business at West Ham.
However, the Hammers securing their top-flight status is of huge importance. Nuno and Gary O’Neil’s recent success in the league may count against the Croatian.
Talks have yet to take place with O’Neil, who managed to keep Wolves and Bournemouth away from the relegation zone in recent seasons.
David Sullivan could cause more protests with managerial appointment
Nuno is the clear and obvious choice for the West Ham board to go for.
However, given that the Hammers haven’t already moved on from Potter, they run the risk of missing out on the top-class manager.
Nuno has proven in recent seasons that he can get teams out of trouble, and a manager of his quality doesn’t stay available for long, and another side will likely jump at the opportunity to appoint him.
Should Sullivan appoint Bilic or O’Neil, he risks tensions rising between supporters and the owners.
Both options are cheaper, and should they get off to poor starts, fans could increase their demonstrations.
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