Graham Potter makes football return as West Ham boss two years after Chelsea gig

Graham Potter has been appointed by West Ham.

In a statement on social media, the Hammers confirmed they had appointed Potter as their new boss on Thursday (January 9). It read: "West Ham United is delighted to welcome Graham Potter as the Club’s new Head Coach.

"The 49-year-old joins the Hammers on a two-and-a-half year contract and will take charge of his new team for the first time when the Irons travel to Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Friday evening.

"A highly-respected and sought-after coach, Potter has been awaiting the right opportunity after leaving his last role at Chelsea in April 2023, and was the Board’s unanimous choice to take the Club forward in line with its objectives and ambitions.

"Potter, whose progressive style and flexible tactical approach previously impressed at Swedish club Östersund, Swansea City and Brighton & Hove Albion, has a passion to return to Premier League management.

"And is relishing the opportunity to work with West Ham United’s talented squad of international players."

Potter's appointment comes less than 24 hours after Julen Lopetegui was sacked by the Hammers following their 4-1 defeat to a struggling Manchester City over the weekend.

A statement said: "West Ham United can confirm that Head Coach Julen Lopetegui has today left the Club.

"The first half of the 2024/25 season has not aligned with the Club’s ambitions and the Club has therefore taken action in line with its objectives.

"The Club can confirm that Assistant Head Coach Pablo Sanz, Head of Performance Oscar Caro, Head Analyst Juan Vicente Peinado, Fitness Coach Borja De Alba and Technical Coach Edu Rubio have also left with immediate effect.

"The Board would like to thank Julen and his staff for their hard work during their time with the Hammers and wish them every success for the future."

Potter's last role in football came almost two-years-ago when he was dismissed by Chelsea. The Englishman had struggled at Stamford Bridge, but, beforehand, he had impressed with Brighton and Swedish side Ostersunds - who he led from the fourth tier into Europe.