Changing of the guard at London Stadium – again
Along with the major changes which are inevitable when a new manager arrives, the personality of a head coach and how he gels with his team can be just as important as a sea-change in football philosophy.
West Ham’s new head coach has history with several of the players, which might contribute towards a ‘new manager bounce’ – notably Espírito Santo’s relationship with his former protegé Max Kilman.
The Hammers’ centre back has been struggling to impose himself this season, more of a pussycat in the air than the defensive ‘lionhearted’ stalwart which the Irons desperately need. After Potter’s capitulation in all but one of this season’s fixtures, Espírito Santo has to fix the back line as a matter of urgency.
He and Kilman have history dating back to the pair’s time at Wolves which may almost by accident help Kilman’s career. One of the unintended consequences of the arrival of Graham Potter’s replacement.
Kilman credited the Portuguese manager for helping him develop – back in 2024 (theguardian.com) he claimed it was Espírito Santo who challenged him to go the extra mile for his career after winning the u23 championships: The the under-23s were going to Marbella to recover – and celebrate a little bit. Nuno said: ‘Do you want to go with them or stay and train with the first team?’ I think he was kind of testing me and I think I made the right decision because that week he brought me on against Fulham.”
£40 million man looks hesitant this season
West Ham have to find a way to get more out of their £40 million man who, despite having been an ever-present last season, has faded into the background and looked hesitant and as wobbly as Mavropanos this term.
Perhaps the new manager can help Kilman recreate his best form which brought him to Lopetegui’s attention at Wolves and ultimately had him made captain of the Old Gold: He looks a long way short of that kind of form in 2025.
Some have suggested that Kilman may be Espírito Santo’s surprise choice as West Ham captain: Best just fix his form first.
Leading by example starts with getting his own game back to a point where the Hammers can rely on him, which has certainly not been the case in recent times. The only reason he’s been starting is because there isn’t a decent option to replace him.
Hope he can get him and the team playing a system where they are more solid and compact. AWB in last seasons form would be a nice gift too. If he can motivate JCT to show the aggression he did in France could be like signing a new player also.
Leaving JWP out is a good start.
A paceless light weight
Yes Kilman needs a makeover for sure.
Dinos wins his place by lionhearted performance. Contrary to your opinion he is the form back in this underperforming team.
I fully agree!
Fully agree DInos at least puts himself about, shows commitment and pust his body on the line. Kilman has shown no leadership, appears uncommitted and looks as if he shies away from challenges. Definately needs a makeover.