The new West Ham manager believes it will require patience to build a unique playing style at the London club. Having previously managed Forest, who is adjusting to his recent appointment, wants to connect with the organization’s traditions on an emotional level.
Learning the Team Identity
Brought in after the abrupt departure of his predecessor, Nuno mentioned that experienced club employees have been bringing him up to speed about what it means to be a Hammer. When asked about his understanding of the club’s famous identity, he smiled and acknowledged that it is interpreted differently—some see it as gung-ho football, while others value fighting spirit.
“This is what I’m aiming to comprehend day by day,” he said. “It’s more than knowing—it must be felt. It takes time to internalize it. Once we feel it, we need to embed it within.”
He stressed that feeling is what counts, rather than mental comprehension. On the topic of playing identity, Nuno stated they are a long way off from making it a reality. “It’s not enough the ‘West Ham way’—we have to develop it, let’s live it.”
Early Days and Future Challenges
His time in charge began with an promising share of the points at Everton. When asked about the proximity he is to forming a clear style, he replied, “In my opinion not very close. It’s a tough task and demands effort from everyone at the club. However, it’s our main focus.”
Commonly, supporters have a demand from followers for entertaining style. The former manager, the club’s top West Ham boss, came under scrutiny due to his defensive mindset. Those who followed also struggled altering the playing philosophy in the years following his exit.
On-Field Approach and Team Structure
Nuno has been tasked to choose whether points are the main goal than attractive football. The team have let in fourteen goals in the opening six league matches and are languishing in 19th place.
“What shapes the team’s approach is not only the head coach,” Nuno stated. “The team itself that influences our approach. We need to strike an equilibrium between defense and attack. We must avoid attacking recklessly, as that creates opportunities for the opposition. We have to maintain defensive shape, yet still keeping in mind our plan when we recover the ball.”
Squad Updates
The club may see the return of first-team members ahead of the next match against Arsenal. In addition, the head coach suggested a potential return for a former regular who was left out in the previous game. He had a brief stint under Nuno earlier, however his time at the club was cut short.
