West Ham United has announced the appointment of Graham Potter as their new manager following the dismissal of Julen Lopetegui.
Potter, who has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract, takes over a team currently sitting 14th in the Premier League with 23 points.
His immediate challenge will be steering the Hammers away from relegation concerns and maximizing the potential of players like Mohammed Kudus, who joined the club earlier this season.
Potter’s appointment marks his return to management after being dismissed by Chelsea on April 2, 2023.
At 49, the Englishman brings a wealth of experience, having managed clubs such as Brighton, Swansea City, and Östersund, where he made his name in Swedish football.
His tenure at Chelsea may have ended in disappointment, but his previous success in developing players and fostering attractive football has won him the confidence of the West Ham board.
Reflecting on his new role, Potter said: “I am delighted to be here. It was important for me to wait until a position came my way and feel I am the right fit for the club I am joining.
That is the feeling I have with West Ham United. The club is huge in the heart of London, with a huge fan base and great support around the world.
I saw the scenes following their 2023 Europa Conference League win, and it was clear that this club has everything in place to be consistently successful, both on and off the pitch.”
The new manager inherits a squad brimming with talent but underperforming in recent months.
One of his priorities will be unlocking the full potential of Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian midfielder who joined from Ajax in a high-profile transfer last summer.
Kudus, a key player for the Hammers, has shown flashes of brilliance but has yet to fully adapt to the Premier League. Potter’s reputation for nurturing players could prove pivotal in helping Kudus thrive.
Potter acknowledged the club’s strong foundation, adding: “The club has come a long way in recent years and has built on a solid foundation.
You don’t win a European trophy by chance. For that to happen, a football club needs to have a good foundation.
The challenge now is to build on that and take the next steps, to develop a team and a club that the fans can be proud of.”
Potter’s first test as West Ham manager comes on January 14 when his side faces Fulham in the Premier League.
Fans will hope his arrival signals a turning point for the Hammers as they aim to climb the table and rediscover their winning form.
