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The new West Ham manager believes it will require patience to build a unique playing style at West Ham United. Having previously managed Forest, who is settling in to his latest role, hopes to bond with the team’s heritage on an deeper level.

Learning the Club’s Ethos

Hired after the abrupt departure of his predecessor, Nuno mentioned that longstanding staff have been bringing him up to speed about the club’s inner workings. Upon questioning about his understanding of the team’s historic philosophy, he smiled and admitted that it means different things—for some it’s as attacking play, while different supporters prioritize passion and resilience.

“It’s exactly what I’m trying to understand on a daily basis,” he explained. “It goes beyond learning—the emotion is essential. Patience is required to internalize it. After it’s internalized, it’s vital to embed it within.”

He emphasized that passion is crucial, not just intellectual understanding. Regarding philosophy and identity, Nuno admitted they are still far from realizing it. “Simply saying the ‘West Ham way’—we have to develop it, we must feel it.”

Starting Period and Long Road Ahead

Nuno’s tenure kicked off with an positive equal result at Everton. Inquired about how close he is to forming a recognizable philosophy, he answered, “In my opinion quite distant. It’s challenging and needs effort from everyone at the club. Yet it remains crucial.”

There is often a expectation from supporters for exciting football. David Moyes, the most successful manager in recent times, later encountered pressure due to his pragmatic approach. Subsequent managers had difficulties changing the on-field approach in the years following his exit.

Playing Philosophy and Player Roles

Nuno has been tasked to determine whether results are more important than attractive football. The team have let in fourteen goals in the initial six Premier League games and are languishing in a low position.

“What influences the team’s approach is not just the manager,” the manager emphasized. “It depends on the players that determines our approach. We need to strike an equilibrium between defense and attack. We cannot pushing up unbalanced, since that leaves gaps for our opponents. It’s vital to be solid at the back, but always keeping in mind what we do when we recover the ball.”

Player Availability

West Ham may see the return of important players ahead of the next fixture at Arsenal. Also, the head coach left the door open a comeback chance for a former regular who was not included in the most recent fixture. The player spent some time under Nuno last season, but his time at the club was cut short.