Nuno Espírito Santo is at risk of losing the backing of the West Ham United squad as player discontent over his management style and tactical decisions grows. The team's morale is reported to be sinking fast following a dismal 3-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday, a result that leaves the East London club deep in a Premier League relegation battle.
Growing Discontent in the Dressing Room
According to multiple sources close to the club, the atmosphere at the London Stadium training ground has become increasingly toxic. Players have described the Portuguese manager as distant and uncommunicative in his day-to-day interactions. This perceived lack of clear dialogue has left several squad members feeling alienated and uncertain about their roles.
Confusion is also rife over Nuno's training methods and team selections. There is significant frustration among key players who believe they have been deployed out of position in crucial games. Eyebrows were raised earlier in the season when Nuno fielded full-backs on their unnatural sides and opted to start without a recognised striker in damaging losses to Leeds United and Brentford.
Tactical Confusion and Alarming Metrics
The team's on-pitch performances have done little to inspire confidence. Analysts have noted a worrying decline in performance metrics over an extended period. This trend made the comprehensive loss to Wolves, who were bottom of the league and without a win all season, sadly predictable.
Sources indicate that Nuno, who appeared a dispirited figure on the touchline, offered few words of encouragement to his players even when they trailed 3-0 at half-time during the Wolves fixture. Further strain has been caused by his decision to exclude experienced midfielder James Ward-Prowse from all matchday squads since his arrival. The 31-year-old had a previous loan spell cut short under Nuno at Nottingham Forest last season.
Board Backing Amidst Fan Unrest
Despite the escalating crisis, West Ham's hierarchy is currently reluctant to make what would be their second managerial sacking of a disastrous campaign. The board has signalled its support by backing Nuno in the January transfer window.
The club has sanctioned several signings at his request, including the £18.3m acquisition of forward Pablo Felipe from Gil Vicente and an impending £26.1m deal for Taty Castellanos from Lazio. A £7m move for Adama Traoré, who played under Nuno at Wolves, is also expected from Fulham.
This recruitment drive, particularly the signing of Pablo who is represented by Nuno's agent Jorge Mendes, is seen as an indication that an immediate change in the dugout is not imminent. However, the manager has inherited a flawed squad at a club where the owners have repeatedly faced protests from disillusioned supporters. Former West Ham boss Slaven Bilic has been linked with a potential return should the situation force a change before the season's end.
West Ham, who sit 18th in the table and four points from safety, face a critical match against Nuno's former club, Nottingham Forest, on Tuesday. Nuno has won just two of his 15 games in charge since replacing Graham Potter in September.
