Five free agent managers West Ham could target as Graham Potter faces sacking pressure

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West Ham United’s difficult start to the season has moved from bad to worse as Graham Potter is fighting to keep his place at the club.

The Hammers suffered their fourth defeat in five Premier League matches this season after a clash with high-flying Crystal Palace.

Goals from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell cancelled out a finish from Jarrod Bowen, adding another game to the list of missed opportunities to kickstart the season.

It means Graham Potter’s position is under scrutiny, as both performances and results are lacking for West Ham.

TBR Football understands Potter could now leave West Ham, as speculation surrounding his job security is ramping up.

While he could move out, there are several options for the manager who could move in to take his place.

So, with that said, here’s a look at five free agent options who could be an option for the Hammers, if they decide to make a change.

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Nuno Espirito Santo

Nuno Espirito Santo’s exit from Nottingham Forest caused some shockwaves.

The manager had enjoyed an impressive season with the East Midlands outfit last season, guiding them back into European football.

However, relationships behind the scenes appeared to break down, leading to Nottingham Forest appointing Ange Postecoglou instead.

It means West Ham are free to speak to Espirito Santo about a move back to the capital, a few years on from his brief spell at Tottenham.

While there may well be question marks over his compact style of play, the manager’s ability to get results and lay a solid foundation for the team is unquestionable.

Slaven Bilic

Slaven Bilic has been linked with a return to West Ham, in a potential surprise turn of events at the London Stadium.

The Croatian head coach is a former player and manager for the Hammers, having quite a connection to the club.

Bilic is currently available, following a spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Fateh.

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Gary O’Neil

Another former West Ham player turned head coach is Gary O’Neil.

The 42-year-old is still on the hunt for another role, following the end of his tenure with Wolves last season.

O’Neil also previously spent time working with Bournemouth and is looking to make a return to management in the Premier League.

He has a pragmatic style of play, looking to maximise every margin for the team and elevate players’ strengths, though there was scrutiny at Wolves over the defensive organisation of his team.

Gareth Southgate

Gareth Southgate is still a free option for clubs, after he stepped down as England men’s national team head coach in 2024.

The 55-year-old hasn’t stepped into club management since 2009, when he had a spell with Middlesbrough.

Southgate’s compact style helped England reach two major tournament finals, but it’s unclear how well that would translate back to the club scene, and if he even has the desire to do so himself.

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Luciano Spalletti

If West Ham want a total departure from their style of play, then Luciano Spalletti is an available option who could shake things up.

The 66-year-old is well-known for his work in Italy, guiding Napoli to a historic Serie A title in the 2022/23 season.

His most recent job was with the Italian national team, which didn’t quite go to plan.

Spalletti’s high-intensity pressing style could be an option to shake things up, but whether he would join or the squad would suit what he needs is unclear.