Nuno Espirito Santo’s time at West Ham United looks to be coming to an end. Following the club’s relegation to the Championship—confirmed on the final day despite a 3-0 victory over Leeds United, with Tottenham Hotspur securing the point they needed against Everton—West Ham are set to part ways with the Portuguese manager, bringing to a close one of the most turbulent and damaging seasons in the club’s modern history.
When Nuno was appointed last September to replace the sacked Graham Potter, West Ham made him the highest-paid manager in the club’s history.
However, his three-year contract reportedly included a clause allowing dismissal without compensation in the event of relegation, as well as a significant salary reduction should it occur.
A catalogue of errors defined his tenure. He ignored explicit medical advice from West Ham’s staff when signing striker Pablo Felipe in the January window—a decision that backfired when the striker broke down with injury almost immediately.
His relationship with Jean-Clair Todibo collapsed after last weekend’s defeat to Newcastle, with The Athletic reporting the France international told Nuno he would never play for him again following a furious exchange after being substituted in the 25th minute.
A side featuring Mateus Fernandes, Crysencio Summerville, and Jarrod Bowen should not have looked as toothless and disorganised as West Ham did this season, and it is hard to make a case for Nuno staying beyond this season. The search for a new manager to lead West Ham’s Championship campaign is expected to begin immediately.