Graham Potter has been appointed as West Ham's new manager, signing a two-and-a-half-year contract. This announcement came just a day after the club parted ways with their previous manager, Julen Lopetegui.
The 49-year-old Potter has been out of work since his departure from Chelsea in April 2023. His tenure at Chelsea lasted only seven months, despite agreeing to a five-year contract. During this period, he managed 31 matches, securing 12 victories.
West Ham currently sit in 14th place in the Premier League standings, seven points clear of the relegation zone. Lopetegui's time at the club resulted in six wins from 20 league matches.
A heavy 4-1 defeat against Manchester City proved to be Lopetegui's final match, ultimately leading to his dismissal from the London club.
"I am delighted to be here," said Potter.
Potter expressed his careful consideration in selecting his next role, emphasizing the importance of finding the right fit for both himself and the club. He believes he has found that fit with West Ham United.
"It was important to me that I waited for a job that felt right for me, and equally, that I was the right fit for the club I am joining. That is the feeling I have with West Ham United."
Potter's managerial journey began at Swedish club Östersund. He then experienced success with Swansea and Brighton before taking the helm at Chelsea.
His first match in charge of West Ham will be an FA Cup third-round tie against Aston Villa on Friday. Subsequently, he will lead the team in Premier League matches against Fulham and Crystal Palace.
Lopetegui's departure marks him as the fifth Premier League manager to lose their job this season. Other managers who have been dismissed include Erik ten Hag (Manchester United), Steve Cooper (Leicester City), Gary O'Neil (Wolverhampton Wanderers), and Russell Martin (Southampton).
West Ham were among the Premier League's highest spenders during the summer transfer window, investing approximately £125 million ($155 million) in new players. These acquisitions included Max Kilman, Crysencio Summerville, and Niclas Füllkrug.
Potter spoke positively about his interactions with the club's chairman and board, highlighting their shared vision and values.
"My conversations with the chairman and the board have been very positive and constructive. We share the same values of hard work and high energy to create the solid foundations that can produce success. We are on the same wavelength in terms of what is needed in the short term and how we want to move the club forward in the medium to long term."
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