Bilic’s Comeback: West Ham Weighs Cost Over Glamour in Managerial Hunt
West Ham United are reportedly preparing for a major shift in leadership, as pressure mounts on Graham Potter after a disastrous start to the 2025‑26 Premier League season. While Nuno Espírito Santo has emerged as a strong contender to replace Potter, his wage demands and compensation requirements are pushing the board to consider a more economical alternative: Slaven Bilic. (The Guardian)
The Potter Predicament
Potter was appointed in January 2025 amidst optimism, but that hope has rapidly eroded. So far this season, the Hammers have managed only one win in five matches. They sit 19th in the league, their defence has been porous, and the club has conceded six goals from only four league fixtures — an alarming return given the heavy investment in the squad over the summer. (Sportingpedia)
Fan discontent is growing and expectations are rising around major matches that could determine Potter’s future, especially fixtures against Everton and Arsenal. (The Guardian)
Nuno in the Frame — But Pricey
Nuno Espírito Santo has recently become available after his departure from Nottingham Forest. He has pedigree in English football and experience managing at high levels. But the problem is cost. It’s understood that his financial demands — both wages and exit/entry costs — are high. On top of that, hiring him would probably involve paying compensation to Potter and his coaching staff. These combined outlays could stretch West Ham’s budget more than the board is currently comfortable with. (The Sun)
Furthermore, there is speculation that Nuno may delay taking a new job if terms aren’t favourable. (The Guardian)
Bilic: A Familiar Face, Lower Cost, Potential Rallying Point
Slaven Bilic is again being considered as an alternative. His previous stint as West Ham manager (2015‑2017) is still fondly remembered by many supporters — his first season saw a seventh‑place finish and Europa League qualification. (The Guardian)
Bilic is currently out of work after his spell at Al‑Fateh in the Saudi Pro League, making him an easier—and cheaper—option from a contractual standpoint. If appointed on a short‑term deal (perhaps until the end of this season), the financial burden would be lower, especially in terms of severance, should things not improve. (West Ham Zone)
There is also the sentimental and motivational edge: as a former West Ham player and popular manager, Bilic may be able to re‑engage disillusioned fans and re‑energise the dressing room. (TalkSport)
Risks & Trade‑Offs
However, opt for Bilic also carries risks:
- Form and recent track record: Since leaving West Ham, Bilic’s results elsewhere have been mixed. His time at Al‑Fateh, for example, did not produce convincing momentum. (TEAMtalk)
- Temporary fix vs. long‑term vision: A short‑term appointment might steady the ship, but it could delay or complicate a more ambitious, long‑term managerial project. West Ham’s leadership will need to weigh up whether they’re preparing for survival or preparing for success.
- Squad expectations & adaptability: Changes in management mid‑season are always disruptive. The question is whether Bilic can quickly imprint his style, work within the current squad, and motivate the players to turn around results.
What This Means for West Ham
From a financial and risk management standpoint, Bilic represents a more prudent option if West Ham want to act quickly without blowing the budget. Nuno may offer more prestige or tactical interest, but the cost could make the difference in a club wary of relegation danger and financial over‑stretch.
Bilic’s possible return could be viewed as an interim solution — a chance to stabilise, see out the rest of the season, and then embark on a more considered managerial appointment in the summer. The board is likely conscious that sending the wrong signals now (by overspending or backing out of Nuno, for example) could have serious ramifications: both on the pitch and among the fan base. (TalkSport)
Conclusion
West Ham stand at a crossroads. The choice between Nuno Espírito Santo and Slaven Bilic isn’t just about managing a team — it’s about balancing ambition, finances, stability and expectation. If the club wants prestige and a possible long‑term plan, Nuno is appealing, but expensive. If the priority is damage limitation, reasserting control and restoring morale, Bilic may well be the “safe but hopeful” bet.
Whether sense or ambition wins out, the decision will say a lot about where West Ham believe they are right now: fighting for survival or still reaching for Europe. Potter’s fate will likely be decided in the coming weeks — and in many ways, hiring Bilic could be interpreted as West Ham choosing caution in a storm.
