West Ham United have officially appointed Graham Potter as their new manager, replacing Julen Lopetegui. The English coach has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract, with all documents finalized and confirmed. This move marks Potter’s return to management after his departure from Chelsea in 2023.
Coaching Team Set to Join
Potter will not be arriving at the London Stadium alone, as he brings along a trusted backroom staff that includes:
Narcís Pèlach – Tactical assistant from his previous roles.
Billy Reid – His long-time assistant coach.
Bruno Saltor – Former Brighton defender and part of Potter’s Chelsea staff.
This experienced team will be expected to implement Potter’s progressive football philosophy at West Ham.
Can Potter Succeed at West Ham?
West Ham fans will be eager to see if Potter can replicate the success he had at Brighton, where he built an exciting, attacking team. His stint at Chelsea was disappointing, but at West Ham, he will have more control over the squad and a structure that suits his long-term project.
Rating the Appointment: 7/10
Potter is a talented coach with a clear tactical vision, but his ability to succeed at a club with higher expectations remains a question. If he can impose his philosophy while maintaining West Ham’s competitiveness, this could be a strong appointment. However, adapting to the demands of the Hammers will be key.
West Ham’s decision to hire Graham Potter signals a commitment to a long-term footballing project. With a strong coaching team and a talented squad, Potter has the tools to succeed. However, his time at Chelsea serves as a cautionary tale, making this a high-risk, high-reward appointment. Will he thrive at West Ham, or will history repeat itself?