“Crisis at West Ham? Graham Potter’s Job Already Under Threat as Relegation Talk Heats Up
West Ham Face Crucial Summer Ahead of Tough Premier League Opener at Sunderland
West Ham will begin their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a trip to Sunderland on 16 August — and there’s already pressure mounting on manager Graham Potter.
Since taking over from Julen Lopetegui at the start of 2025, Potter has struggled to make the desired impact at the London Stadium.
While a wave of injuries last season certainly disrupted his plans, the team’s overall performance left a lot to be desired.
Now, with a fresh season on the horizon, Potter is hoping for a clean slate.
But significant work is needed in the transfer market before West Ham can aim for a stronger campaign — and co-owner David Sullivan will need to show financial backing if he expects improvement.
Close Call Last Season Highlights Relegation Risk
West Ham finished 14th in the league last season, but the table was tight. Just five points separated them from Tottenham in 17th — a clear indication of how close the Hammers came to being pulled into a relegation battle.
Following recent European success and the substantial spending that came after Declan Rice’s departure, a bottom-half finish is far below expectations.
With Tottenham preparing for Champions League football under new leadership, the gap between the two London clubs could grow even wider next season — and that might leave West Ham vulnerable.
Potter Under Early Pressure
No signings have been made yet this summer, but concerns are already growing.
Football pundit Rory Jennings offered a stark warning during an appearance on talkSPORT:
“West Ham United under Graham Potter are going to be relegated. I’ve never known a manager who fits the club less.
West Ham are a proud, passionate club with a fiery fanbase — nothing about Potter matches that identity.
As long as he’s in charge, I think they’re genuine relegation candidates.”
Financial Constraints, Transfer Uncertainty
To be fair to Potter, he hasn’t had ideal conditions to work with. Much of last summer’s spending happened under Lopetegui, leaving Potter with limited funds during the January window.
On top of that, the club’s financial situation under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) may force sales before any new additions.
Mohammed Kudus is one player who could be sold to generate funds, with interest in the Ghanaian attacker growing.
Regardless of the financial challenges, West Ham need a strong start to the season — especially with such a tricky opening fixture.
With some already raising the alarm over potential relegation, David Sullivan must act decisively.
Last season showed that leaving changes too late can be just as damaging as not making them at all.
