Graham Potter’s Favourite Player Will Not Feature Under Nuno At West Ham: Why Is It The Right Decision? | OneFootball

West Ham United supporters have seen their club take several sharp turns in recent seasons. The arrival of Nuno Espírito Santo signals another chapter that looks very different from what went before. Under Graham Potter, James Ward-Prowse was trusted almost without question despite a mixed form.

That approach created frustration among sections of the fanbase. Now with Nuno in charge, the approach looks more ruthless. He appears determined to reshape the team in his own style. We reported earlier that West Ham United are preparing a €35 million proposal for Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye in the January transfer window, which highlights their willingness to refresh the midfield options.

The latest report from Ex, via his West Ham Way Patreon, confirmed that Ward-Prowse will not feature in Nuno’s plans. According to Ex, the manager does not see the midfielder as part of the squad. His omission could come sooner rather than later. Meanwhile, new signing Magassa is already pushing for a starting role.

Nuno admired the youngster during his time at Nottingham Forest. Hammers fans may welcome such decisions because they see a coach willing to act decisively instead of persisting with selections that left many unconvinced under Potter. With the Premier League campaign still young, this shift in approach adds suspense around how West Ham will set up in the coming weeks.

“The rumours are true this morning that James Ward-Prowse is not expected to feature in the squad and could be out of the manager’s plans,” Ex said.

“New signing Magassa will be pushing for a start, and he is a player who was admired by Nuno whilst at Forest.”

Why Ward-Prowse Might Not Fit Nuno’s Approach at West Ham?

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 09: James Ward-Prowse of West Ham United during the pre-season friendly match between West Ham United and Lille OSC at London Stadium on August 09, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

James Ward-Prowse remains one of the finest set-piece specialists in English football, and the 30-year-old’s passing range is widely respected. However, questions arise over whether his attributes fit Nuno Espírito Santo’s tactical demands. Nuno prefers compact defensive lines, quick transitions, and a counter-attacking style that reduces the need for sustained possession. Ward-Prowse works hard, but he may lack the explosive speed or relentless pressing that Nuno demands from his midfielders.

Also, Nuno’s system typically relies on physical strikers capable of holding up play and wingers who break into space at pace. In this set-up, midfielders act as shields and facilitators of quick movement rather than orchestrators of possession. Reports in The Sun suggest Ward-Prowse could face limited minutes under this framework.

His underwhelming loan spell at Nottingham Forest, where he was often used as a substitute, reinforces that view. Therefore, while Ward-Prowse still offers quality, his strengths may not align with Nuno’s priorities. That leaves his role uncertain as West Ham move into this new phase. We also reported that The Hammers are targeting Anderlecht’s young attacker Mario Stroeykens, further hinting at a squad reshaped for transition football.