Graham Potter has been dismissed as manager of West Ham United, with the club languishing in 19th place in the Premier League. This decision followed shortly after Potter had conducted his pre-match press conference ahead of West Ham’s upcoming fixture against Everton. In the ensuing search for a successor, one potential candidate has already been deemed “too risky,” according to insights from insider Dean Jones, particularly as Manchester United may be eyeing the same individual.
Currently, it is widely expected that former Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo will take over the reins at the London Stadium, with some speculating his presence on the sidelines when the Hammers face Everton.
The appointment of Gary O’Neil, another name reportedly in consideration, carries inherent risks. TEAMtalk’s insider Jones elaborates on why Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna, previously part of Manchester United’s coaching staff, is not being seriously considered by either club.
Jones remarked, “While McKenna’s name surfaces in discussions, I doubt that either West Ham or Man United are willing to gamble on him at this juncture. West Ham have assessed such an appointment as too hazardous. Opting for a manager from the Championship does not guarantee an improvement over Graham Potter’s tenure.”
He continued, “Similarly, could United genuinely contemplate an approach for Ipswich’s manager, especially following another unsuccessful high-profile appointment? The historical connection makes it a plausible option. But for a club targeting the Premier League title by 2028, such a decision would indeed be remarkably audacious. Eventually, McKenna is likely to return to the Premier League, but the current scenarios at either club do not seem to be the appropriate moment.”
For West Ham, the concern lingers that McKenna, who experienced relegation with Ipswich last season, might not be the answer to staving off the drop. The club is keen on a leader proven in fighting to stay afloat in the league.
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