West Ham’s recent loss to West Brom has intensified scrutiny on manager Nuno Espírito Santo, although the team’s position in the Championship table offers some justification for maintaining his role. Currently, the Hammers sit eighth after 13 matches, securing six wins, four draws, and three losses. With 33 goals scored—the highest in the league—their offensive capabilities are evident, but the team has also conceded 18 goals.

Following a 3-1 defeat at home to West Brom, the frustrations mounted for fans as the team faced a second consecutive loss, having also fallen to Southampton. While their goalscoring keeps them in contention for automatic promotion, defensive vulnerabilities have consistently turned potential victories into lost opportunities.

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Currently, West Ham trails second-placed Swansea by four points, indicating that promotion remains a feasible goal. Dismissing Nuno in November could disrupt the team’s momentum, especially considering the club’s prior investment in a squad designed for a Premier League return.

Former Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness suggests that the board will likely give the Portuguese coach time as long as West Ham remains near the top of the table. During a discussion on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness highlighted the challenges of adjusting to the Championship, recalling his own experiences at Villa. He emphasized that while promotion is the ultimate goal, Nuno could face dismissal if he fails to deliver results.

Though patience appears to be the current strategy, the club does have potential alternatives in mind. Reports indicate that West Ham has made early inquiries regarding former Wolves, Luton Town, and Middlesbrough manager Rob Edwards, who recently declined an approach from Burnley. However, it remains unclear whether West Ham’s interest played any role in that decision.

Should West Ham Retain Nuno for the Rest of the Season?

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 31: Nuno Espirito Santo Manager of West Ham United during the Sky Bet Championship 2026/27 match between West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion at London Stadium on October 31, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

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While retaining Nuno might be justified at this point, the board shouldn’t evaluate his performance based solely on the current standings. The team’s 33 goals underscore their attacking strength, yet the 18 goals conceded, along with susceptibility during transitions, highlight persistent issues. The tendency to fall behind early creates additional challenges, especially with Nuno’s system allowing opponents space to capitalize on turnovers.

Entering another season outside the Premier League could have significant sporting and financial repercussions. A mid-season change could destabilize the team, but excessive loyalty might squander the squad’s potential. The board is advised to seek improved defensive organization, better game management, and more consistent performances while quietly assessing other managerial options. With just four points separating them from a promotion spot, another performance akin to the recent loss against West Brom would be hard to justify.