West Ham United boss Nuno Espirito Santo has come out in defence of goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, insisting the £20.8 million summer signing will be given another opportunity despite losing his starting spot early in the season.
Hermansen joined from Leicester City in July with expectations of becoming the club’s long-term No.1, but the 25-year-old’s start under Graham Potter was turbulent. He conceded 11 goals in his first four matches, keeping just one clean sheet, before Alphonse Areola reclaimed the gloves.
Since then, Hermansen has been limited to the bench, watching as Areola featured in defeats to Crystal Palace and Arsenal, a draw against Everton, and the EFL Cup loss to Wolves.
Now, Nuno has told Tipsbladet that the Danish stopper remains part of his plans and will “get his chance” again soon.
Nuno: “It’s not him who conceded them, it’s the team”
“When we arrived here, the change in the goalkeeper position had already been made,” Nuno said. “We’ve seen a top professional who works hard like many of his teammates. The relationship is developing and will become normal over time.” — Nuno Espirito Santo, *Tipsbladet*
The new West Ham manager stressed that the decision to persist with Areola was based on limited preparation time when he arrived — not on a lack of faith in Hermansen.
“But all players will get their chances. It’s a new start for everyone,” he added. “What we expect from Mads is that he works hard, and that he has patience and respect for the decisions we must make.”
West Ham’s defensive woes not pinned on Hermansen
Nuno also refused to blame the Dane for the 11 goals conceded in those early matches, insisting responsibility lies with the team structure, not the goalkeeper.
“No, it’s not him who conceded them — it’s the team. We have to improve the team. We score and concede together. I hope that next time we talk, we won’t be discussing the same numbers for goals conceded.” — Nuno Espirito Santo
His comments mark a clear attempt to protect the confidence of a player who arrived at the London Stadium with high expectations after impressing in the Championship.
Stat (2025/26) | Mads Hermansen |
---|---|
Appearances | 4 |
Goals Conceded | 11 |
Clean Sheets | 1 |
Saves per 90 | 3.2 |
source: sofascore match data – 15 October 2025
While the raw numbers don’t flatter Hermansen, Nuno’s focus is on collective improvement rather than individual blame.
Analyst verdict – patience and perspective
In my view, Nuno’s approach is classic man-management — defending a player publicly while reinforcing standards privately. West Ham’s defensive issues predate Hermansen’s arrival, and the keeper deserves another chance to prove his quality.
FootballPlace analyst John William adds:
“Goalkeepers always suffer first when results dip. Nuno’s comments show he values mentality and professionalism. If Hermansen stays ready, a rotation moment will come — especially with West Ham’s schedule.”
Key insights
- Nuno confirms Mads Hermansen will get his chance to play again.
- Manager refuses to blame the Dane for early defensive struggles.
- Areola remains first choice for now but competition is open.
- Hermansen joined for €20.8m from Leicester in summer 2025.
- Nuno focusing on team improvement, not individual mistakes.
What’s next for Hermansen and West Ham?
West Ham return to action against Brentford on 19 October. With fixtures coming thick and fast, Nuno could rotate his keepers — offering Hermansen the opportunity he’s been promised.
For the Dane, patience and preparation will be key. His manager’s public backing suggests that when his name is called again, it will be a genuine clean slate.
👉 Should Nuno give Mads Hermansen a run of games to rebuild his confidence as West Ham’s No.1?
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