As David Moyes’ tenure at West Ham United looks likely to draw to a close, with his contract set to expire at the end of the 2023-24 Premier League season, speculation is mounting about his potential successor.
Moyes’ second stint at the London Stadium saw him bring considerable success, including a record points finish and a UEFA Conference League victory.
However, recent domestic performances have been underwhelming and made West Ham less favourable in the Premier League bet markets, possibly prompting the club’s management to consider a new direction.
That said, here’s a look at the leading candidates who could be in the running to take over the Hammers this summer.
Graham Potter
Graham Potter became a highly sought-after coach due to his impressive work at Brighton and Hove Albion, which ultimately earned him a move to Chelsea.
Despite his short and certainly less successful spell at Stamford Bridge, Potter’s reputation for developing teams with attractive, effective football remains intact.
West Ham could offer him a chance to restore his managerial credentials and continue his philosophy of progressive football in the Premier League.
Julen Lopetegui
Julen Lopetegui’s abrupt departure from Wolverhampton Wanderers just days before the start of the season was a major talking point.
His track record with Spain, Real Madrid, and Sevilla – where he won the Europa League – coupled with a rescue mission at Wolves, showcases his capabilities.
Lopetegui brings experience from the top levels of European football and could be a strong candidate to take West Ham to the next level.
Michael Carrick
Michael Carrick is familiar with West Ham, having started his professional career at the club and staying with them for five years before moving to Tottenham Hotspur.
After a short stint as a caretaker manager at Manchester United before gaining more experience managing Middlesbrough in the challenging realm of the Championship, Carrick has demonstrated a knack for leadership and tactical acumen.
His understanding of the club’s culture and his recent managerial experiences might make him a compelling choice for the West Ham owners.
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Paulo Fonseca
Known for his tactical flexibility and attacking philosophy, Paulo Fonseca has garnered attention across Europe with successful spells in Portugal, Ukraine, Italy, and currently France with Lille.
Fonseca won three Ukrainian Premier League titles with Shakhtar and has been consistent in Ligue 1 with Lille.
Previously linked with high-profile jobs at Tottenham and reportedly on Liverpool’s radar, Fonseca could bring a fresh and ambitious approach to the Hammers.
Other contenders
- Hansi Flick: The former Bayern Munich manager, known for his tactical intelligence and success at both club and national team levels, could be a high-profile option for West Ham.
- Ruben Amorim: Currently managing Sporting Lisbon, Amorim’s innovative tactics and ability to develop young talent have put him on the map as one of Europe’s exciting coaching prospects.
- Brendan Rodgers: With extensive Premier League experience and a philosophy of attractive, attacking football, Rodgers could be a suitable candidate if he’s willing to leave Celtic.
- Rafa Benitez: The seasoned manager has a wealth of experience in the Premier League and Europe, known for organizing teams well and achieving results, which could appeal to West Ham’s desire for stability and progress.
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As West Ham United prepare for a potentially transformative summer, the choice of their next manager will be crucial in defining the club’s direction for the coming years.
The wrong choice of coach could potentially see West Ham plummet down the table and end up in danger of the Premiership relegation odds.
