By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
Poor old Paco Jemez might finally understand why the phone has not been ringing from West Ham because, within the last couple of hours, it has become clear that head coach Nuno Espírito Santo has selected an alternative candidate to become his number two for the upcoming campaign.
The news was broken by John Percy of The Telegraph, who revealed that Nuno is set to be reunited with his former right-hand man from his Wolverhampton Wanderers days.
Nuno Reunites With Trusted Assistant
Percy posted:
“Huge boost for Nuno Espírito Santo at West Ham with his long-time No 2 Rui Pedro Silva to join him on the staff. RPS to leave #Wolves and work with Nuno again after spells with Wolves and Forest. Knowing how much importance Nuno places on him, this will only improve #whufc chances of success in the Championship.”
Silva served two separate spells at Molineux. He was Nuno’s assistant between 2017 and 2021, helping Wolves earn promotion to the Premier League before reaching the Europa League quarter-finals.
He briefly returned to the club in December 2025 to assist Rob Edwards.
Paco’s Future Now Appears Clear
The news will no doubt come as a disappointment to Paco, who only yesterday revealed that he was considering other opportunities after receiving little contact from Nuno Espírito Santo regarding a return to the London Stadium.
From West Ham’s point of view, however, it is positive news.
With pre-season training due to begin next week, Nuno’s backroom staff had started to look a little thin, making the appointment of a trusted assistant increasingly important.
While many supporters may have been hoping to see Paco’s personality and enthusiasm back at the club, it’s encouraging to see West Ham continuing to put the building blocks in place ahead of the new season.
The Hammers begin their competitive campaign against Portsmouth in the Carabao Cup on Saturday 8 August.