Nuno Espírito Santo Makes Creating the Hammers Identity His Number One Priority

Nuno Espírito Santo is convinced it will take time to establish a distinct identity at West Ham United. The former Nottingham Forest manager, who is settling in to his latest role, hopes to forge a relationship with the club’s culture on an emotional level.

Learning the Club’s Ethos

Brought in after the sudden exit of his predecessor, Nuno explained that veteran members have been filling him in about what it means to be a Hammer. Upon questioning about his view of the team’s historic philosophy, he grinned and admitted that it carries various meanings—for some it’s as attacking play, while different supporters prioritize passion and resilience.

“That’s what I’m trying to understand on a daily basis,” he explained. “It goes beyond learning—it must be felt. I need time to internalize it. Once we feel it, we need to make it part of us.”

He highlighted that emotion makes the difference, rather than mental comprehension. On the topic of style and culture, Nuno admitted they are not yet close from achieving it. “Merely talking about the ‘West Ham way’—let’s create it, let’s live it.”

Early Days and Future Challenges

The new manager’s start got underway with an positive equal result away to Everton. Inquired about the proximity he is to developing a clear style, he responded, “In my opinion very far. It’s difficult and needs effort from everyone at the club. However, it’s our main focus.”

There is often a demand from the fanbase for entertaining style. The former manager, historically achieving manager in recent times, later encountered scrutiny due to his pragmatic approach. Those who followed had difficulties transforming the playing philosophy in the post-Moyes era.

Style of Play and Player Roles

Nuno has been tasked to determine whether points are a higher priority than exciting play. The team have allowed fourteen goals in their first six Premier League games and find themselves in 19th place.

“What shapes the team’s approach is not the coach,” the manager emphasized. “It’s the squad that determines our style. We must strike an equilibrium between the two phases of play. It’s not possible to going forward without structure, as that creates opportunities for the opposition. We must defend and organize, yet still prioritizing our next move once we have the ball.”

Player Availability

Nuno’s side may see the return of first-team members in preparation for the fixture at Arsenal. Also, Nuno suggested a potential return for a seasoned player who was left out in the previous game. The player spent some time under the manager previously, but his temporary stay was ended early.