Post David Moyes departure from West Ham and the appointment of Julen Lopetegui and then Graham Potter and now Nuno Espírito Santo, one name was previously linked to the Head Coach role, Will Still, a self confessed West Ham fan, who openly described managing the Hammers as his “dream job.”
Still had carved out a reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young managers, having made headlines for his unconventional rise through the ranks and his success in Ligue 1.
In 2024, a senior source reacted to a question regarding Still and the possibility of him joining West Ham and told C&H “too much of a risk, I admire what he’s done, but too much of a gamble.”
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Will Still, Hammers fan: Too much, too young?
After one season as manager of RC Lens, He was appointed Southampton manager in the summer of 2025. Southampton fans, still reeling from relegation were eager for a fresh start. His appointment was seen as a statement of intent, a modern, data-driven coach to lead the club back to the Premier League. Yet the 33 year-old manager has now departed Southampton after a string of poor performances, questionable tactical decisions, and a growing disconnect with supporters.
Southampton’s form has been patchy at best, with the team struggling to find consistency. Defensive frailties, a lack of attacking cohesion, and an overreliance on youth have all contributed to a series of disappointing results. The Saints currently languish in 21st position, far from the automatic promotion spots they were tipped to challenge for.
The discontent among the fanbase reached a boiling point after a dismal 2-0 home defeat to Preston North End. Chants of “Still out” echoed around the stadium, and the manager was met with a chorus of boos as he walked down the tunnel. Social media has been full of criticism, with many supporters questioning his tactics, team selections, and even his past comments professing loyalty to West Ham United.
One fan tweeted, “We need someone who bleeds red and white, not a West Ham fan who’s out of his depth.”
Reports also emerged of unrest within the dressing room. Some senior players were said to be frustrated with Still’s rigid tactical approach and lack of adaptability. His insistence on playing out from the back, even under intense pressure, led to costly errors and dropped points.
Still remained defiant to the very end insisting that he wanted to build something for the long term. “We’re going through a tough patch, but I believe in the process,” he said in a recent press conference. “The fans have every right to be frustrated, but I’m here to fight for this club.”
However, Southampton now find themselves looking for a new Head Coach, and ironically have been linked to a former West Ham player – Frank Lampard!