Eight goals conceded in just two matches—let that sink in. Now, consider this: [Graham Potter](https://www.claretandhugh.info/hell-play-tomorrow-graham-potters-fascinating-confirmation-ahead-of-chelsea-clash/) has become the first West Ham manager in Premier League history to fail to reach double digits in points from his first ten games, collecting only nine through two wins, three draws, and five defeats.
Across his 21-game tenure, the Hammers have managed just five wins, five draws, and eleven losses—yielding a win rate of 23.81%.
The issues are glaring. There’s a distinct lack of energy and pace in midfield, Bowen has been played out of position, and team selections continue to favour experience over youthful dynamism.
More troubling was last night’s collapse against Chelsea, with every goal conceded from either a cross or a corner. Even Potter admitted post-match: _“It’s too easy to score against us, so I take my responsibility and must do better.”_
What’s worse, several players appear to be regressing under Potter’s leadership.
This isn’t easy to write—but the reality is clear: he needs to go.
I’m not buying into the usual excuses about long-term projects or needing time. He failed at Chelsea, was mediocre at Brighton and Swansea, and the pattern is repeating. Potter said, _“Sometimes in life and football you hit a patch”_—but that patch seems to span most of his managerial career.
His win rate at Chelsea was 38.71% over 31 games, which cost him the job. At Brighton, it was even lower at 31.11%. His stint at Swansea over eleven months included 19 losses in 51 games.
His best record came at Ostersunds, with a 51% win rate—perhaps a reflection of the level he’s best suited for.
Time for cool heads : _Graham Potter’s appointment, championed by Karren Brady, was a mistake. Acknowledge that and move forward._
Attention must also turn to the board. Following the recent transfer window, questions remain about the club’s financial messaging—claims of £100m and £80m losses under PSR scrutiny. But football financial expert Kieran Maguire has challenged this narrative, suggesting West Ham may be overstating their constraints. If true, the issue may lie more with internal budgeting than regulatory pressure.
The numbers support his view. West Ham consistently draws the second-highest attendances in the Premier League and ranks 17th globally in Deloitte’s Football Money League—highlighting strong commercial growth, broadcast revenue, and matchday income.
Relegation is unthinkable. Yet with a substantial loan from Barclays secured against future Premier League income, and another opaque loan tied to club-owned land and property, fans are right to be concerned.
This reliance on future earnings leaves the club financially vulnerable—especially amid poor performances and the absence of European competition.
Whether David Sullivan and Daniel Kretinsky share these concerns remains to be seen.