Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Tue 24 March 2026 16:10, UK

Mateus Fernandes has been linked with a move away from West Ham United after impressive performances in E20, but his latest admission could give hope of him staying.

Life at the Hammers did not start great for the Portuguese midfielder, with early displays under Graham Potter leaving little to be desired.

However, since Nuno Espirito Santo arrived, Fernandes has maintained himself as one of the most consistent players for the Irons.

It was only natural that rumours linking him away to the likes of Manchester United would emerge.

But based on his latest comments about Nuno, it could provide an inkling of hope that he does not move away from West Ham.

What has Mateus Fernandes said about Nuno Espirito Santo?

If the Hammers are to get relegated, players of Fernandes’ ilk are likely to move elsewhere, as they have the quality required to compete at a higher level than the Championship.

However, if West Ham can stave off the drop, they may have some hope in convincing the 21-year-old to remain in East London.

Fernandes has received his first Portugal call-up, and he has since been talking about his West Ham manager.

Speaking ahead of Portugal’s friendly against Mexico, as relayed by O Jogo, Fernandes said: “This year, at West Ham, manager Nuno Espirito Santo has shown a lot of stability and confidence, and when we feel the manager’s confidence, things happen naturally.

“West Ham is a club that fights for the top spots, and we are not happy with the current situation.”

With Nuno instilling confidence in both the Hammers squad and in Fernandes, that could tempt the young midfielder to continue at London Stadium.

The £38million signing is playing some of his best football throughout his career, and with Nuno having a major role in that, maintaining that relationship could be important for the midfielder ahead of the summer window.

Where does Mateus Fernandes rank among West Ham’s top performers?

Across the West Ham squad, Fernandes is rated as the best player this season in the Premier League. According to Sofascore, his 7.16 average rating is above Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville’s 7.0.

At that level of impact, he is a player that Nuno will want to stick around next season, should West Ham survive relegation.

The Hammers manager has already spoken about the midfielder enthusiastically, highlighting his growing role in the side.

If he were to leave, it would be a crucial blow to the task of replacing him effectively. likely to prove difficult.

Hopefully, Fernandes’ recent glowing assessment of Nuno is a sign that he is eager to continue playing under him.