By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X).
Claret & Hugh can exclusively reveal that Nuno Espírito Santo is due to meet with two potential candidates for the role of Director of Football over the coming days.
Nuno was yesterday reported as having a significant say in the club’s decision over who should be appointed, although it is not the case the final decision will rest with the head coach.
That said, two candidates have now emerged, with Espírito Santo set to discuss the West Ham project and the club’s plans going forward in what is expected to be a significant week behind the scenes at the London Stadium.
Director Of Football Appointment Moves Closer
The appointment of a Director of Football remains a priority for West Ham, with a collective desire within the club’s hierarchy to finally put somebody in place to oversee recruitment.
However, it remains unclear exactly how much authority the successful candidate will be given.
At present, it appears West Ham are looking more towards appointing somebody to lead recruitment rather than an all-powerful football director overseeing every aspect of football operations at the club.
Speaking exclusively to Claret & Hugh this morning, a club insider said:
“Nuno is meeting two candidates next week but don’t get too excited, nothing is close yet.”
Big Week Behind The Scenes
That being said, there does appear to be significant restructuring taking place behind the scenes.
A series of non-football appointments and decisions are also believed to be imminent as West Ham continue efforts to reshape the club following relegation.
Whether that ultimately delivers the changes supporters have been promised remains to be seen, but there is certainly movement taking place away from the pitch as preparations continue for next season.
I am one of the few who is glad that the incoming DOF is instead a head of recruitment – that is what the club needs. I am very uncomfortable with an outside executive deciding on long term direction of WHU. We all know what it should be & a DOF now would just mean one more person with assumed authority coming in.
Just a guess, not something I’m familiar with but round table decisions might be best?
IF Nuno is making the call, it’ll probably be a relative of Jorge Mendes
Remember the day 6/6/26. Good things come to those that wait
Precisely!
We seem to have this the wrong way round. Any appointed DOF should be interviewing Nuno to decide whether he still has a job. Only West Ham could make a DIF subordinate to the Manager!