Nuno Declares Building the Hammers Identity His Number One Focus
Nuno Espírito Santo believes it will be a gradual process to develop a distinct identity at the London club. The former Nottingham Forest manager, who is settling in to his latest role, wants to bond with the club’s culture on an personal level.
Discovering the Club’s Ethos
Appointed after the abrupt departure of the previous manager, Nuno explained that longstanding staff have been educating him about the club’s inner workings. When asked about his interpretation of the famous “West Ham way”, he smiled and acknowledged that it is interpreted differently—some see it as gung-ho football, while others value passion and resilience.
“That’s what I’m trying to understand every day,” Nuno commented. “It’s not just knowing—the emotion is essential. I need time to feel it. Once we feel it, we need to embody it fully.”
He highlighted that emotion is what counts, not just mental comprehension. When it comes to philosophy and identity, Nuno conceded they are not yet close from making it a reality. “Merely talking about the ‘West Ham way’—let’s create it, let’s live it.”
Starting Period and Future Challenges
Nuno’s tenure got underway with an promising equal result on the road. Questioned about the distance he is to establishing a team identity, he replied, “I think very far. It’s difficult and requires total commitment at the club. However, it’s our main focus.”
Frequently, there is a desire from the fanbase for entertaining style. The former manager, the club’s top modern-era coach, came under scrutiny due to his practical style. Those who followed also struggled transforming the playing philosophy in the period after his departure.
On-Field Approach and Team Structure
The responsibility now lies with Nuno to choose whether winning are more important than entertainment. The Hammers have conceded fourteen goals in their first six league matches and currently sit in a low position.
“What shapes the team’s approach is not the coach,” Nuno stated. “The team itself that determines our style. It’s essential to strike an equilibrium between the two phases of play. We cannot pushing up unbalanced, as that leaves gaps for our opponents. It’s vital to be solid at the back, while also keeping in mind our plan when we recover the ball.”
Team News
The club may see the return of first-team members in preparation for the fixture at Arsenal. In addition, Nuno hinted at a comeback chance for a seasoned player who was not included in the last match. The player previously worked under Nuno last season, however his loan spell was concluded prematurely.
