Nuno Declares Building West Ham Identity His Top Priority

The new West Ham manager believes it will be a gradual process to develop a unique playing style at the London club. The former Nottingham Forest manager, who is adjusting to his new position, wants to forge a relationship with the club’s culture on an emotional level.

Discovering the West Ham Way

Hired after the abrupt departure of the previous manager, Nuno explained that longstanding staff have been filling him in about what it means to be a Hammer. In response to a query about his understanding of the club’s famous identity, he grinned and acknowledged that it carries various meanings—some see it as all-out offense, while others value fighting spirit.

“That’s what I’m working to grasp on a daily basis,” he said. “It’s more than learning—the emotion is essential. Patience is required to absorb it. Once we feel it, we must make it part of us.”

He highlighted that feeling is what counts, instead of mental comprehension. On the topic of style and culture, Nuno conceded they are a long way off from achieving it. “Merely talking about the ‘West Ham way’—let’s create it, we need to embrace it.”

Initial Phase and Upcoming Tests

The new manager’s start began with an positive share of the points at Everton. When asked about the distance he is to establishing a team identity, he replied, “I think very far. It’s a tough task and requires total commitment at the club. However, it’s our main focus.”

There is often a demand from supporters for entertaining style. The former manager, historically achieving manager in recent times, eventually faced criticism due to his defensive mindset. Subsequent managers also struggled changing the team’s style in the years following his exit.

Style of Play and Team Structure

The responsibility now lies with Nuno to decide whether results are more important than attractive football. The Hammers have let in fourteen goals in the initial six fixtures and find themselves in the relegation zone.

“What shapes the team’s approach is not only the head coach,” Nuno stated. “It depends on the players that influences our approach. We must strike an equilibrium between defense and attack. It’s not possible to attacking recklessly, because that leaves gaps for the opposition. We must maintain defensive shape, while also focusing on our plan when we recover the ball.”

Player Availability

West Ham could welcome back important players for the upcoming match against Arsenal. Furthermore, the manager hinted at a comeback chance for a former regular who was omitted in the last match. The player previously worked under Nuno last season, but his time at the club was ended early.