AliousFive Big Things Spotted in West Ham Training Ahead of Arsenal – Nuno Espirito Santo Brings Futsal Flair and Ruthless Edge to the Hammers
Nuno Espirito Santo has completed his first full week in charge of West Ham, and it’s already clear that the Portuguese coach is leaving his mark on the team. From futsal-inspired drills to bold squad decisions, the Hammers are showing early signs of change ahead of a tough trip to Arsenal.
After two years of decline, fans are simply looking for progress. The 1–1 draw at Everton offered a glimpse of improvement, and with two consecutive wins at the Emirates in recent seasons, there is cautious optimism that West Ham can compete.
1. Nuno’s Ruthless Squad Separation
Nuno has wasted no time setting standards. Training footage showed him splitting players into two groups — a trusted core of 15 and a secondary squad. Key players like Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paquetá, and Alphonse Areola made the main group, while others such as James Ward-Prowse, Luis Guilherme, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were left out. Dropping Ward-Prowse entirely last week sent a strong message that no player’s place is safe.
2. “Speak Up!” – Nuno Encourages Player Voices
Unlike Graham Potter, Nuno wants players to communicate openly. He urged his squad to share ideas and hold each other accountable, stressing that their honesty would not affect selection. This marks a shift toward collaboration and shared responsibility within the team.
3. Aura, Energy, and Leadership Return
Nuno’s presence has given the squad a lift. His confidence and constant interaction on the training ground have brought a more energetic and united atmosphere. Players appear more motivated, and fans have noticed the renewed sense of direction.
4. Futsal-Inspired Tactics: Attack Is Back
West Ham’s attacking play has lacked spark in recent years, but Nuno is changing that. In training, he introduced a futsal-style rule limiting back passes to the goalkeeper, forcing players to move forward quickly. The approach encourages fluid, attacking football — a style Nuno’s Wolves and Forest teams were known for. It was already visible in their counter-attacking display against Everton.
5. Summerville’s Injury Scare and Squad Changes
Crysencio Summerville impressed in Nuno’s debut match but gave fans a scare after limping off. Thankfully, he trained fully this week and appears fit to face Arsenal. With Tomáš Souček suspended, Nuno must trim his 22-man squad to 20, with Ward-Prowse expected to be left out again as the manager continues to make tough calls.
A New Dawn at West Ham?
Nuno’s methods — his emphasis on accountability, energy, and attacking intent — are beginning to reshape the club. The visit to Arsenal will be an early test, but if these changes continue, it could mark the start of a much-needed revival for West Ham.
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