West Ham sacks Nuno Espirito Santo, Scott Parker emerges as favourite to replace him

File Image: Former West Ham midfielder Scott Parker emerged as the leading candidate to replace Nuno Espirito Santo as manager. | Photo Credit: AP

West Ham United is expected to appoint former midfielder Scott Parker as its new manager after dismissing Nuno Espirito Santo on Tuesday following a disappointing start to the Championship season.

Parker, 46, has emerged as the club’s preferred choice, with discussions underway over a possible appointment ahead of Wednesday’s league fixture against Cardiff City.

The former England international spent four seasons at West Ham as a player and has previously managed Fulham, Bournemouth, Club Brugge and Burnley.

He also has experience guiding clubs back to the Premier League, having secured promotion from the Championship with Bournemouth and Burnley.

Nuno, 52, was relieved of his duties after consecutive league defeats to Southampton and West Bromwich Albion left West Ham eighth in the standings with 13 matches played, six points behind leader Middlesbrough.

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The Portuguese coach, who previously managed Wolverhampton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest, took charge in September 2025.

Although he was unable to prevent West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League last season, the club retained him in the hope of securing an immediate return to the top flight.

However, inconsistent results prompted the management to make another change.

“Following a thorough review of the start to the EFL Championship season, the board of directors believe that a change is necessary at this time in order to ensure that the club’s objectives and expectations remain on track,” West Ham said in a statement.

The club is now looking to appoint its fourth permanent manager since David Moyes departed in May 2024, following the dismissals of Julen Lopetegui, Graham Potter and Nuno.