After a nightmare opening spell in charge, Nuno Espírito Santo has finally sparked life into West Ham United’s Premier League campaign. The Hammers’ back-to-back victories over Newcastle United and Burnley have not only delivered vital points but also renewed belief and cohesion in a squad that had looked fractured and uncertain just a few weeks ago.
West Ham remain in the relegation zone, but for the first time this season, there is a sense of direction and unity. The Portuguese manager’s steady influence is beginning to show, with improvements in structure, mentality, and attacking chemistry standing out in recent weeks.
Building togetherness after disarray
When Nuno replaced Julen Lopetegui in September, he inherited a side low on confidence and leaking goals. His first four games yielded no wins and just three goals, prompting early fears that the club’s downward spiral might continue.
But Nuno’s focus on discipline, tactical clarity, and squad unity is now paying off. His side have shown growing resilience — coming from behind to beat both Newcastle and Burnley — and look far more organised off the ball.
The back-to-back home wins marked the first time since October 2024 that West Ham have recorded successive victories at the London Stadium.
“After a tough start, Nuno has reintroduced structure, belief, and simplicity,” said a club source. “Players know their jobs again. The mood in training has completely shifted.”
Attack finally clicking into gear
In their last two league matches, West Ham have scored six goals — almost matching their total from the previous nine. Crysencio Summerville and Lucas Paquetá have rediscovered confidence and creativity, while Jarrod Bowen remains the constant driving force in attack.
For the first time this season, Bowen looks supported rather than isolated. The addition of Callum Wilson as an orthodox striker has provided a clear focal point, giving West Ham more precision and purpose in transition.
Nuno’s system now allows Bowen to operate in spaces where he can stretch defences, while Paquetá and Summerville handle creativity. It’s a blend of pace, skill, and positional balance that had been missing earlier in the campaign.
Fernandes and Potts emerge as midfield pillars
A major factor in the Hammers’ improvement has been Nuno’s decision to stick with an unchanged midfield for consecutive matches — a stark contrast to his early weeks of constant rotation.
Academy graduate Freddie Potts has quickly become a fan favourite with his composure and energy, while Mateus Fernandes is growing into the £42 million role that once looked too heavy for his shoulders. The Portuguese midfielder has been crucial in both defensive duels and forward progression.
Statistically, Fernandes trails only Paquetá in combined tackles and interceptions this season — evidence of his box-to-box influence. His chemistry with Potts and Paquetá gives West Ham balance and bite through the middle.
“Fernandes has been one of the quiet revelations,” said a matchday analyst. “He presses high, wins duels, and keeps play moving — exactly what Nuno wants.”
Defence still a work in progress
Despite the improvement in attack, issues persist at the back. West Ham conceded another headed goal against Burnley — a recurring weakness — while Alphonse Areola continues to look uncertain between the posts. His late spill that led to Josh Cullen’s consolation goal was another reminder that the defensive unit still needs fine-tuning.
Nuno has identified defensive organisation as a top priority during the international break. He’s expected to use the extra training time to improve set-piece defending and build stronger communication across the back line.
Mentality shift driving results
Perhaps the biggest transformation under Nuno has been psychological. West Ham’s players now show the fight and togetherness that were missing under previous management. Coming from behind to win consecutive matches is a testament to a renewed team spirit — and to Nuno’s calm authority on the touchline.
Supporters have noticed the difference. The London Stadium has rediscovered its voice, and the connection between fans and players feels restored.
Tough fixtures ahead
The Hammers’ resurgence will be tested immediately after the international break. Nuno’s men face a demanding run of games against Bournemouth, Liverpool, and Manchester United — three sides in strong form.
While survival remains the immediate goal, Nuno’s influence has given fans hope that the club can move beyond mere firefighting and start building something sustainable.
Analyst Verdict: Signs of life under Nuno
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Nuno’s clear tactical approach is finally bearing fruit. “He’s simplified things and restored structure,” William said. “West Ham are defending deeper, attacking with more balance, and showing personality again. The turnaround isn’t complete, but the trajectory is upward.”
William added: “If Nuno continues to trust the same core of players — especially Fernandes, Potts, and Bowen — West Ham have enough quality to pull clear by Christmas.”
Key Insights
- Nuno Espírito Santo has guided West Ham to back-to-back wins after a poor start.
- Six goals in two games show a resurgent attack led by Bowen, Summerville, and Paquetá.
- Fernandes and Potts have stabilised the midfield with energy and composure.
- Defensive lapses and goalkeeping uncertainty remain key areas to fix.
- Upcoming fixtures against Bournemouth, Liverpool, and Manchester United will test their progress.
What’s Next for Nuno and West Ham?
Nuno will use the international break to refine defensive structure and improve fitness levels, particularly for key figures like Wilson and Paquetá. The manager’s emphasis on mentality and collective effort has already transformed the team’s confidence — and fans now have a reason to believe survival is achievable.
👉 Can Nuno Espirito Santo complete West Ham’s turnaround and steer them clear of danger before Christmas?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *