EPL: Pressure Mounts on Potter as West Ham Eye Potential Replacements
The pressure on West Ham United manager Graham Potter has intensified following yet another disappointing Premier League result, with reports indicating that the club’s hierarchy has begun exploring possible replacements. West Ham fell to a 2-1 defeat against Crystal Palace at the London Stadium over the weekend, a result that extended their poor run of form to four losses in five league games. The Hammers now sit dangerously close to the relegation zone, sparking unrest among supporters and renewed calls for change in the dugout. Before kick-off, hundreds of fans staged protests outside the ground, voicing anger at the board as well as the team’s recent performances. Chants demanding accountability from the club’s owners—David Sullivan and Karren Brady—highlighted frustration over what fans described as poor recruitment and lack of direction since the club’s transition under Potter. Inside the stadium, tension was evident throughout the game. Although Jarrod Bowen briefly brought the hosts level, defensive lapses once again proved costly, with Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell netting a late winner. The defeat underscored West Ham’s struggles with set-piece defending, a recurring weakness this season. Potter, who has recorded just six wins in 25 league games since taking charge in January, admitted afterwards that he was “feeling the pressure.” He urged unity among players, staff, and fans while stressing the need to “stick together” during this difficult spell. Despite his appeal, growing sections of the fanbase and punditry argue that the team’s trajectory leaves little margin for error. Meanwhile, speculation has mounted over possible successors should the board decide to act. Former Wolves and Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo, ex-Hammers manager Slaven Bilic, and Everton’s Sean Dyche are among the names reported to be under consideration. Sources suggest the club is prioritising candidates with Premier League experience and the ability to steady the squad in the short term. The next few fixtures are expected to be crucial in determining Potter’s future. A continuation of poor results could force the board into making an early managerial change in a bid to salvage the season. For now, West Ham remain publicly supportive of their head coach, but behind the scenes, preparations appear to be underway for a possible transition. With discontent growing among supporters and results showing little sign of improvement, the question remains whether Potter can turn the tide—or whether West Ham will be forced to seek a new direction before it is too late.
