Enzo Maresca smirks at Graham Potter who holds his face
(Credit: Imago)
Alex Charlton
Thu 21 August 2025 19:30, UK
Graham Potter is already under immense pressure at West Ham after just one game of the Premier League season.
West Ham were stunned by Sunderland at the Stadium of Light after a worrying collapse in the second half, losing 3-0 on the opening day.
Potter faces his former side, Chelsea, next at the London Stadium, and the home supporters will be expecting a response on Friday evening.
However, failing to react and the 50-year-old could create an unwanted record for the East London club.
West Ham manager Graham Potter anxiously watches on from the dugout
Potter has endured a tough time for the Irons (Credit: Imago)
Graham Potter could break Avram Grant and Alan Curbishley record
There has already been talk of West Ham sacking Potter, and although it is early days, there is genuine concern.
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Last season, the former Chelsea manager was unable to stop the plight after Julen Lopetegui’s dismal spell.
While he did stem the flow of goals conceded, the style of play was drab, and results were not forthcoming.
Games Wins Draws Losses Points Points per match (PPM)
20 5 5 10 20 1
Potter’s record as Hammers boss
Although Sunderland provided an opportunity, the Hammers continued their poor form, and things will not get any easier.
West Ham have won just two of their nine Premier League home matches under Potter, including three draws and four losses, picking up nine points.
Indeed, no Irons manager has ever won fewer than 10 points in their first 10 home games in the top flight, the lowest currently by both Alan Curbishley and Avram Grant, according to BBC Sport.
Read more: Graham Potter shares worrying admission over West Ham’s transfer plans, ‘isn’t easy to do’
Graham Potter looks curiously in the West Ham dugout.
Potter has to turn things around at the London Stadium (Credit: Imago)
Can Graham Potter spring a West Ham surprise against Chelsea?
While Chelsea represents a daunting prospect for the Hammers, their showing against Crystal Palace suggests they can be beaten.
However, are Potter’s side capable of doing so?
Firstly, the Irons must step up their performance as the majority of players did not show up against Sunderland.
Furthermore, their key players must be on top form, with Jarrod Bowen, El Hadji Malick Diouf, and Lucas Paqueta all to play key roles.
Against Palace, Chelsea looked tired and may have been nursing a hangover from the FIFA Club World Cup.
West Ham showed early promise against Sunderland, but collapsed in the second half
Potter needs his key players on form at the London Stadium
Chelsea were underwhelming against the Eagles
If Potter’s men are not up for it, then he will make history in the worst way possible at the London Stadium.
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