This Midfielder Will Be Sold By West Ham After Not Being In The Plans Of Nuno: Is It The Right Decision? | OneFootball

West Ham United’s new manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, has already made a bold statement. He left James Ward-Prowse out of the squad for the trip to Everton, a decision that surprised many. The choice instantly fuelled speculation about the midfielder’s role under the new boss. It also raised questions about his long-term future.

Pete O’Rourke told Football Insider that Nuno’s move to axe Ward-Prowse points to a deeper issue. He suggested that the 30-year-old midfielder does not appear to have a place in the Portuguese coach’s plans. The decision carried a sense of familiarity because the two had worked together at Nottingham Forest.

What did he say?

“Well, it does appear that he does not have a future at West Ham, Ward-Prowse. Obviously, Nuno’s first act at West Ham was to axe him from the squad to face Everton on Monday night, which raised a few eyebrows. It just seems that Ward-Prowse has no sort of place in Nuno’s plans at the London Stadium.

It’s not the first time either, Nuno worked with Ward-Prowse at Nottingham Forest last year when he joined on a season-long loan, but that was cut short and he was sent back to West Ham in January. So there’s obviously something, maybe that Nuno doesn’t rate Ward-Prowse, and the best solution for all parties will be a parting of the ways in the January window.”

Ward-Prowse’s loan spell ended early when the club sent him back in January. This pattern reinforces the idea that Nuno does not rate him highly. With West Ham United already exploring new market options, a January departure seems inevitable. The story comes at a time when the club have been linked with fresh names, including Mateo Pellegrino, while they are also said to be preparing a €35 million bid for Pape Gueye in an effort to reshape the squad.

Why Ward-Prowse no longer fits Nuno’s system at West Ham United?

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 22: James Ward-Prowse of West Ham United and Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea compete for the ball during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Chelsea at London Stadium on August 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

From a tactical view, Ward-Prowse does not fit Nuno’s philosophy. The West Ham manager prefers compact football, fast counter-attacks, and relentless pressing, with midfielders expected to protect the back line and set transitions into motion. Ward-Prowse excels when he dictates possession, spreads play, and delivers dangerous set-pieces. The English midfielder’s strengths stand in contrast to what Nuno requires, which leaves him struggling to influence games within this system.

Ward-Prowse’s lack of explosive pace and inability to maintain constant pressing make him a poor fit for Nuno’s approach. During his last spell under the Portuguese manager at Nottingham Forest, Nuno used him sparingly, which adds further weight to the belief that the same could happen again at West Ham. Current statistics support this, with five appearances this season yielding no goals, no assists, and only two successful tackles.

This tactical misfit, combined with the Hammers’ model of selling players to fund new signings, makes it more likely that Ward-Prowse will leave. His exit would free space for Nuno to build a squad more in tune with his demands, with the January transfer window shaping up to be a decisive moment for the club’s future.