🔗 Share this article Nuno Makes Building West Ham Identity His Top Priority The new West Ham manager is convinced it will take time to develop a distinct identity at the London club. Having previously managed Forest, who is adjusting to his recent appointment, hopes to bond with the team’s heritage on an deeper level. Absorbing the Club’s Ethos Brought in after the sudden exit of his predecessor, Nuno revealed that longstanding staff have been educating him about life at West Ham. In response to a query about his understanding of the famous “West Ham way”, he grinned and stated that it is interpreted differently—for some it’s as attacking play, while other emphasize passion and resilience. “That’s what I’m working to grasp every day,” he said. “It’s not just understanding—the emotion is essential. I need time to absorb it. When it becomes part of us, we must embody it fully.” He emphasized that emotion is crucial, not just theoretical knowledge. When it comes to playing identity, Nuno admitted they are not yet close from achieving it. “Merely talking about the ‘West Ham way’—let’s create it, let’s live it.” Starting Period and Future Challenges Nuno’s tenure began with an promising 1-1 draw at Everton. Inquired about the distance he is to developing a team identity, he replied, “I think very far. It’s a tough task and demands a collective push at the club. However, it’s our main focus.” Commonly, supporters have a expectation from the fanbase for entertaining style. David Moyes, the most successful manager in recent times, came under pressure due to his pragmatic approach. Those who followed found it tough altering the team’s style in the years following his exit. Style of Play and Player Roles Now, it falls to Nuno to decide whether results are the main goal than attractive football. The Hammers have let in a high number of goals in the initial six Premier League games and currently sit in a low position. “What determines the style of play is not just the manager,” he explained. “It’s the squad that decides our approach. We must find a balance between the two phases of play. We must avoid pushing up unbalanced, as that leaves gaps for rival teams. It’s vital to defend and organize, while also focusing on our plan after winning possession.” Squad Updates Nuno’s side could welcome back key defenders ahead of the next trip to the Emirates. Furthermore, the manager left the door open a comeback chance for a former regular who was omitted in the previous game. He had a brief stint under Nuno earlier, though his temporary stay was cut short.