Nuno Declares Creating the Hammers Philosophy His Number One Priority
The new West Ham manager believes it will take time to develop a unique playing style at the London club. Having previously managed Forest, who is settling in to his recent appointment, aims to forge a relationship with the team’s heritage on an personal level.
Learning the Team Identity
Hired after the recent dismissal of his predecessor, Nuno explained that experienced club employees have been bringing him up to speed about what it means to be a Hammer. When asked about his view of the club’s famous identity, he beamed and stated that it means different things—for some it’s as attacking play, while other emphasize fighting spirit.
“It’s exactly what I’m working to grasp on a daily basis,” he said. “It’s more than knowing—the emotion is essential. I need time to feel it. After it’s internalized, we need to make it part of us.”
He stressed that feeling is what counts, not just mental comprehension. When it comes to style and culture, Nuno conceded they are a long way off from achieving it. “It’s not enough the ‘West Ham way’—we must build it, we need to embrace it.”
Initial Phase and Future Challenges
His time in charge kicked off with an promising 1-1 draw on the road. Inquired about the proximity he is to establishing a clear style, he responded, “Personally, I feel not very close. It’s challenging and needs a collective push at the club. Yet it remains crucial.”
Frequently, there is a demand from supporters for attacking play. The former manager, the club’s top manager in recent times, later encountered scrutiny due to his practical style. Subsequent managers had difficulties altering the playing philosophy in the years following his exit.
On-Field Approach and Squad Balance
The responsibility now lies with Nuno to decide whether results are the main goal than entertainment. The team have conceded fourteen goals in the opening six league matches and find themselves in a low position.
“What influences the way we play is not just the manager,” he explained. “It’s the squad that influences our style. We need to strike an equilibrium between defense and attack. It’s not possible to pushing up unbalanced, since that leaves gaps for rival teams. It’s vital to be solid at the back, while also focusing on our next move once we have the ball.”
Team News
West Ham may see the return of important players ahead of the next match against Arsenal. Furthermore, the head coach suggested a potential return for an experienced midfielder who was omitted in the most recent fixture. He had a brief stint under Nuno last season, but his time at the club was concluded prematurely.
