'Change is necessary' — West Ham sack Graham Potter after dismal start to season

The Hammers have secured only three points from their opening five league matches, including a heavy defeat at home to Chelsea, leading the board to make a change.

Graham Potter had been preparing for Monday's match at Everton and fulfilled his media duties on Friday before the announcement.

The club issued a statement citing a lack of progress under the English manager. They said they "believe that a change is necessary in order to help improve the team's position in the Premier League as soon as possible."

West Ham further elaborated on the decision, stating: "Results and performances over the course of the second half of last season and the start of the 2025-26 season have not matched expectations."

Potter took charge of 25 matches after being appointed in January, winning only six times and guiding the team to a 14th-place finish last season.

Former Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo is understood to be an early favourite to take over the role.

The club concluded its statement by thanking the departing manager: "The board would like to thank Graham and his coaching staff for their hard work during their time with the Hammers and wish them every success for the future."