Graham Potter begins new role at West Ham

Graham Potter has been unveiled as the new manager of West Ham United, signing a two-and-a-half-year deal with the club. The 49-year-old replaces Julen Lopetegui, who was dismissed on Wednesday after just six months in charge.

Potter, returning to management for the first time since leaving Chelsea in April 2023, expressed his excitement about taking the reins at the London club.

“It’s a proud day to be head coach of this amazing club – big tradition, big history, big expectations, big challenge,” Potter said. “I’m really excited, it’s a bit like Christmas – Christmas for the adults. I’m looking forward to meeting the players today, meeting our supporters, and getting going.”

West Ham currently sit 14th in the Premier League, seven points above the relegation zone, with just six league wins this season. The former Chelsea and Brighton boss emphasized the importance of building a strong connection with the club’s loyal and passionate fanbase.

“My experience is that if you can build a team that is recognizable on the pitch, that the supporters identify with, are proud of, and enjoy watching, and you get that trust and connection between the players and the supporters, with everybody aligned, that’s the key,” Potter noted.

Potter’s appointment comes after a period of reflection following his high-profile dismissal from Chelsea. He described the past 20 months as a valuable break that allowed him to assess opportunities carefully.

“It was important that I chose the right option for me at the right time, and as soon as I spoke to this club, it just felt right for me. It’s an amazing club with a tremendous, loyal fanbase that is passionate, knowledgeable, knows their football, and knows what they want. I think it’s a good fit,” he said.

Potter’s previous stint at Chelsea, where he was the first managerial appointment under Todd Boehly’s ownership, was short-lived. Despite a record £323m spending spree in the 2023 January transfer window, he was dismissed after managing just 11 wins in 31 games.

Before his time at Stamford Bridge, Potter earned acclaim for his work at Brighton, leading the Seagulls to finishes of 15th, 16th, and ninth during his tenure.