West Ham identify three possible Nuno replacements, including former Ipswich, Burnley and Middlesbrough bosses.

Pressure is building around Nuno Espirito Santo’s position at West Ham United, with the club reportedly beginning to examine possible alternatives following a worrying decline in results.

The Hammers entered the 2026/27 Championship season as clear title favourites for promotion after their unprecedented relegation ended 14 consecutive years in the Premier League. Keeping Nuno in charge, retaining key players such as Jarrod Bowen, Taty Castellanos and Konstantinos Mavropanos all pointed towards an immediate return to the top flight.

Nuno’s Championship experience also strengthened that belief. His previous full campaign at this level ended with Wolves winning the 2017/18 title.

However, West Ham’s recent results have raised concerns. Consecutive home defeats against Southampton and West Bromwich Albion have left the London Stadium side eighth in the table. They are now eight points behind second-placed Swansea City, despite beating the Welsh club away from home.

That sudden drop has increased scrutiny on Nuno, whose position has already divided supporters. According to a report from Alan Nixon of The Sun, the club has identified three managers as potential replacements if the Portuguese coach fails to reverse the situation.

Kieran McKenna emerges as first option

The first name reportedly placed on West Ham’s three-man emergency shortlist is Kieran McKenna, who is currently without a club following his departure from Ipswich Town during the summer.

McKenna enjoyed another successful Championship campaign at Portman Road last season, guiding Ipswich to a second-place finish and securing his second consecutive promotion from the second tier. Despite that achievement, the 40-year-old surprisingly chose to leave in June, explaining that he wanted to take a break and spend more time with his family.

His reputation remains strong, however. McKenna has previously attracted attention from Premier League clubs, including Fulham and Bournemouth. The latter reportedly considered appointing him before eventually choosing Marco Rose, with an £8 million compensation package said to have been a major obstacle.

Interestingly, Ipswich’s protection of that compensation arrangement means West Ham could still face a substantial payment if they want McKenna. Reports suggest the fee may eventually reduce around July 1 next year, but the Hammers would need to spend heavily if they wanted him immediately.

McKenna would nevertheless offer West Ham an exciting option. His teams are associated with proactive, possession-based football, and he has three promotions on his managerial record, including two from the Championship.

Scott Parker brings experience

Scott Parker is another name reportedly being considered. His potential return would make sense because of both his availability and his previous connection with West Ham.

Parker is currently out of work after leaving Burnley towards the end of last season, and some supporters have previously called for the former England international to be given another opportunity in management.

The 46-year-old has established himself as a highly effective Championship manager. He guided Fulham back to the Premier League through the play-offs during his first full season at Craven Cottage before taking Bournemouth to promotion with a second-place finish in 2021/22.

Parker later repeated that achievement with Burnley, leading them to second place behind Leeds United after collecting 100 points. His record at Championship level therefore makes him an obvious candidate for a club trying to escape the division.

His Premier League record is less impressive, though. Parker experienced relegation with both Fulham and Burnley, meaning some West Ham supporters could have reservations about bringing him back.

There is also some lingering emotion surrounding his previous spell at the club. Parker made 126 appearances for West Ham, but his departure for Tottenham following relegation in 2011 was unpopular with sections of the fanbase.

Nevertheless, his availability means West Ham would not have to negotiate compensation, while his knowledge of the club could make him an attractive option.

Rob Edwards also in contention

The third candidate is Rob Edwards, another manager who is currently without a job after leaving Wolves.

Reports suggest people close to the club are strongly supporting Edwards’ candidacy and are attempting to convince West Ham’s decision-makers that he should be considered if Nuno is dismissed.

Edwards has a mixed recent record but remains highly regarded for his work in the Championship. His spell at Wolves ended abruptly after only seven months, with the club opting to appoint Cesar Peixoto instead.

That decision was viewed by many as harsh, particularly because Edwards had taken over when Wolves were bottom of the Premier League and had failed to win any of their opening 11 matches.

Before Wolves, Edwards had also managed Middlesbrough, where he made an impressive early start after arriving the previous summer. His decision to leave for another opportunity has left him with a difficult relationship with supporters on Teesside.

His managerial journey began at Forest Green Rovers, where he won the League Two title in 2021/22 before moving to Watford. That appointment lasted only a few months.

Edwards then found success with Luton Town, guiding them to a historic first promotion to the Premier League in May 2023. Luton were relegated immediately the following season, while Edwards was dismissed in January after the club became involved in another unexpected relegation battle.

West Ham now face a major decision

All three candidates offer different qualities. McKenna provides youth, modern football and an impressive promotion record, although his potential compensation cost could be significant. Parker has extensive experience of getting Championship clubs promoted and is immediately available, but his Premier League record could concern supporters.

Edwards offers another promotion specialist with experience at several levels, although his recent managerial spells have been inconsistent.

For now, Nuno remains in charge and has an opportunity to change the situation. West Ham’s next results could determine whether these names remain mere speculation or become genuine options.

With promotion still the objective, the club’s hierarchy must decide whether Nuno can restore momentum or whether a change in the dugout is required. The three names already being discussed suggest West Ham are preparing for either possibility.