Graham Potter looking nervous towards an image of David Sullivan in a circle frame
(Credit: Imago)
Samuel Fabre
Mon 25 August 2025 14:10, UK
West ham have started the season in dismal fashion, losing both of their opening Premier League fixtures as pressure mounts on Graham Potter.
West Ham suffered an embarrassing 5-1 loss to Chelsea, meaning Potter has urgent work to do if he’s to ensure that he isn’t the first managerial casualty of the Premier League season.
The Hammers sit bottom of the table with a goal difference of minus seven and face daunting trips to Nottingham Forest, Tottenham and Arsenal in their next five matches.
Potter joined West Ham in January and is overseeing his first summer transfer window in charge of the club.
West Ham manager Graham Potter anxiously watches on from the dugout
Graham Potter is under intense scrutiny at West Ham. (Credit: Imago)
Guido Rodriguez seeks contract termination amid Real Betis return
After just one season in the Premier League, 31-year-old Guido Rodriguez looks set to depart West Ham and return to his former club, Real Betis.
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According to a report from ABC newspaper, Betis and Rodriguez have been in talks for several days to try to finalise a complex agreement that would involve the Argentina international terminating his contract with West Ham.
Rodriguez would take a huge salary reduction and earn even less than what he was offered by Betis 14 months ago before his arrival in East London.
The defensive midfielder was incredibly disappointing last campaign and has failed to establish himself in the heart of the West Ham midfield.
Guido Rodriguez stats 2024/25 Premier League season Stat
Appearances 23
Duels won (%) 56.4
Tackles won (%) 52.8
Aerial duels won (%) 61.1
Stats via FotMob.
With a return to Spain imminent, it is clear that Potter will look to replace him with a younger, more athletically fit midfielder.
Read more: David Sullivan’s stance on Graham Potter sack revealed as huge West Ham friction emerges
Rodriguez
Guido Rodriguez looks to be leaving West Ham. (Credit: Imago)
Soungoutou Magassa appears as perfect replacement
Reported top target Soungoutou Magassa would be an exciting addition to the ageing midfield, with West Ham close to agreeing a deal worth £17.3 million for the Frenchman.
An imposing figure, Magassa already has Champions League experience under his belt and played a big role for France at the Under-21 Euros.
His versatility is a huge bonus, as the 20-year-old has operated as a centre-back and a central midfielder when needed.
Magassa’s deep-lying role could be hugely positive for Lucas Paqueta, as it could allow the Brazilian to play with much more freedom.
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