West Ham boss Graham Potter looking worried as David Sullivan watches on.
(Credit: Imago)
Declan Carr
Mon 18 August 2025 11:10, UK
West Ham manager Graham Potter is under severe pressure after the 3-0 loss to Sunderland on Saturday.
The Hammers put in an embarrassing display as they were humbled by the newly-promoted side on Sunderland’s return to the Premier League.
Potter was already under scrutiny at the London Stadium after winning just five of his first 19 games in charge, and David Sullivan could be forced to sack him soon if things do not improve.
There is an argument to be made that he does not have the right players, but West Ham cannot afford to wait around until he does.
Potter has struggled after replacing Julen Lopetegui. (Credit: Imago)
West Ham Zone presents the exclusive opinion of iconic football commentator Ian Darke.
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Potter only a few results from the sack at West Ham
Potter has never been able to escape talk of the sack, despite only being seven months into his reign.
Darke believes that Potter may only be a few games away from being sacked after the nature of the result against the Black Cats.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, he said: “Graham Potter might be running out of road at West Ham.
“Losing 3-0 at Sunderland like that is dreadful, especially after what happened last season.
“He might be only a couple more bad results from the exit door“
London Stadium, West Ham
Potter’s time in East London may be coming to an end. (Credit: Imago)
Will West Ham really sack Potter?
The question that Sullivan and Co. need to answer is, can Potter take the Irons forward if he had the right players?
If they think the answer is no, then they should relieve him of his duties as soon as possible.
If the answer is yes, then they need to ensure that he is backed in the transfer market and gets the players that he needs in the next two weeks.
Date Venue Opposition
22 August Home Chelsea
31 August Away Nottingham Forest
13 September Home Tottenham
20 September Home Crystal Palace
29 September Away Everton
West Ham’s next five in the Premier League.
The likes of Nayef Aguerd and Guido Rodriguez are out of favour but still featured against the Mackems, which is telling for the lack of squad depth in E20.
Ultimately, Potter inherited a chaotic situation, and it would be a very harsh decision to sack him this early in his reign.
The run of fixtures that he faces in the next few weeks are daunting, though, and it is quite conceivable that they could lose them all.
Defeats against Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham could spell the end for Potter.
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