West Ham’s new manager Graham Potter has insisted he is a “better” and “smarter” coach following his 20-month break since being sacked by Chelsea.
Mr Potter was confirmed as West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui’s successor on Thursday, ensuring his first return as manager since leaving the Blues in April 2023.
The Englishman lasted less than eight months during his chaotic reign at Stramford Bridge, winning just seven of his 22 Premier League games.
But despite his earlier reputation having taken a beating during his time at Brighton, Potter believes his time in west London has helped him develop as a coach.
Potter spoke to the media for the first time. I’ve been a manager for 12 years and this break has done me some good, giving me a chance to rest and reflect.
“Now I’m very happy to be here.
“We don’t have that much time to prepare, that’s the reality, but I’m a little bit more sensible. I think there’s an ideal time, but when the opportunity comes, you have to take it. Yes, we have a great week ahead of us.”
Asked if he felt he needed to prove himself again now, Potter added: That’s the reality of professional sports.
“I’m at peace with myself, who I am, and what I’ve done. But no one is perfect. Life is about accepting setbacks and mistakes and moving on. It’s about moving on. I think I’m going to be a better coach after this experience and I feel well-rested.”
“As soon as I spoke to this club, I knew it was right for me.”
Graham Potter answers questions for the first time since becoming West Ham’s new manager ⚒️ pic.twitter.com/VVWAYwwSrb
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 9, 2025
Potter: ‘The important thing was that I was waiting for the right role’
Potter has impressed not only with the Seagulls but also with Swansea and Ostersund, and was regularly in charge during his 20-month absence from the managerial role.
The 49-year-old was linked as a candidate to replace Gareth Southgate as England manager before Thomas Tuchel, who replaced Potter at Chelsea, was appointed.
Potter said: “It’s been 20 months and it’s been a nice break. We’ve had discussions with various directors and owners and I think it was important to choose the right option at the right time.
“When I spoke to the club, it felt right. I think it would be a good fit.”
On why West Ham was the right club, he said:
“Looking at the ambition of the board, the trust and belief in me, the squad, the academy and Mark Noble’s work behind the scenes there. The supporters are passionate, knowledgeable and loyal.
“When you add it all up, it’s a huge club, a club that’s like a family and that’s what appeals to me too, that sense of playing together.”
Potter: “I feel lucky to be at West Ham”
After choosing the London Stadium as his next destination, Potter reiterated how honored he was to have been given the opportunity at the Premier League club.
He added: “I feel lucky to be here and I’m grateful to be here. I apologize that my name is linked (to so many clubs). I’m tired of it.
“I am here now and I am very happy, proud and honored to be in this position. I hope that I can do a good job and that the supporters will be positive towards me. The support has been amazing and the words of encouragement are touching.”
Mr. Potter admits the existence of behind-the-scenes staff
Manager Graham Potter has confirmed that former Brighton captains Bruno Salter (assistant coach), Billy Reid (first team coach) and Narcisse Peraha (first team coach) will join West Ham.
“This is the core group,” Potter said of the management team. “I look forward to working with the staff at this club.”
Potter’s first game will be away to Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Friday night, followed by Fulham the following Tuesday.
