Former West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic has offered candid insights into his time at the club, speaking on Talksport about recruitment policies, managerial opportunities, and his belief in the Hammers’ current squad.
Bilic revealed that during his tenure, the responsibility for player recruitment largely rested with him, despite the presence of a Head of Recruitment.
“When I was there we had Tony Henry as Head of Recruitment, but I remember what David Sullivan and the late David Gold told me, before I signed the contract, you are the decision maker, depending on finances. If we agree on finances then it’s you. I dunno from six or seven transfers you are doing them. I remember one day David Sullivan once told me that occasionally every couple of years he likes to get one striker, but not first choice striker, maybe third of whatever.”
His comments highlight the balance between the board influence and managerial autonomy, with no surprises to many supporters that finances ultimately dictate the final decisions.
Bilic also confirmed that he was considered for the West Ham managerial role before Nuno Espírito Santo was appointed.
“I was close, but I didn’t get the job. They got Nuno who is a top manager and who done a great job at Wolves and not to mention Nottingham Forest.”
The Croatian coach’s admission underscores how close he came to returning to the London stadium – a move reportedly pushed by David Sullivan.
Finally, Bilic shared his optimism about West Ham’s chances of staying in the Premier League this season.
“I think they’re going to be okay this season, They’re going well, I believe in them, I believe in the players. Once they click, I think they get the confidence going, they’re going to grow and I think they are going to be safe.”
His faith in the squad is music to my ears and hopefully he’s proven correct!
I thought everyone was moaning about sully always getting the players he wants and the manager being forced to squeeze sullys picks into the team because he only works with certain agents. This quote would suggest that is not the case…
“David Sullivan and the late David Gold told me, before I signed the contract, you are the decision maker, depending on finances. If we agree on finances then it’s you.”
“His comments highlight the balance between the board influence and managerial autonomy, with no surprises to many supporters that finances ultimately dictate the final decisions.”
This is not unique to West Ham and our supporters. Same for every club in the world.
Finances dictate in every company.
Nice to hear from Slaven Bilic though, Matt. Thanks for this.