West Ham United have confirmed the appointment of Scott Parker as their new manager, just a day after the Championship club parted ways with Nuno Espirito Santo. The 46-year-old former England midfielder returns to the club where he spent four seasons as a player, signing a two-and-a-half-year deal.
A Proud Return
Parker expressed his delight at returning to West Ham, stating: "It is a very proud moment for me to step into this role and return to a club that means so much to me and my family." He added: "I have a lot of very fond memories of my time here - four years of probably the best football I played in my career. There was a warmth, a love, a feeling that I probably didn't have anywhere else."
The former midfielder also highlighted his excitement about the challenge ahead: "More than anything, this is an opportunity that I am very excited about." Parker will take charge immediately for West Ham's trip to Cardiff on Wednesday.
Nuno's Departure
Nuno, 52, was dismissed on Tuesday following a disappointing start to the season. Despite overseeing West Ham's relegation from the Premier League last season, he remained at the club with the aim of securing an immediate return to the top flight. However, the Hammers currently sit eighth in the Championship table, six points behind leaders Middlesbrough after 13 games, prompting the board to act.
Promotion Pedigree
Parker brings a strong track record of success in the Championship, having led both Bournemouth and Burnley to promotion from the second tier. He has also managed Fulham and Club Brugge. Reflecting on his experience, Parker said: "I feel privileged and honoured to be the guy that wants to lead us back to the Premier League. I've been in this division three times and I've got out of this division three times. This is a tough division, there is absolutely no denying it. And I will use every ounce of my experience, every ounce of my knowledge."
His most recent promotion came with Burnley, though he left the Clarets in April after their relegation from the Premier League was confirmed.
Board's Unanimous Choice
West Ham interim chief executive Karim Virani commented on the appointment: "He is someone who is held in high regard at West Ham United and throughout the game, and he was the unanimous choice of the board to become our new head coach."
Parker becomes West Ham's fourth permanent manager since David Moyes departed in May 2024. Julen Lopetegui was sacked after just six months, and Graham Potter was dismissed after eight months. The club will be hoping Parker can provide the stability and expertise needed to guide them back to the Premier League.
