New West Ham boss Graham Potter insists he is a “better” and a “wiser” coach after a 20-month break since being sacked by Chelsea.
Potter was confirmed as Julen Lopetegui’s successor at West Ham on Thursday, sealing his return to management since leaving the Blues in April 2023.
The Englishman lasted less than eight months during a chaotic reign at Stramford Bridge which saw him win only seven of his 22 Premier League games.
But despite his previously burgeoning repuation from his time at Brighton taking a hit, Potter believes his time in West London has improved him as a coach.
Speaking to the media for the first time, Potter said: “I’m a better person and coach for the experience, and well rested. I had 12 years of being a manager, the break has done me good, and given me a chance to rest and reflect.
“Now I’m here and delighted.
“We haven’t got that preparation time, that’s the reality, but I’m a bit wiser. There is an ideal time I guess but sometimes when the opportunity comes up you’ve got to take it. We’ve got a great week ahead.”
Asked whether he now feels the need to prove himself again, Potter added: “When I hear [Pep] Guardiola say he’s got something to prove then we all have! It’s the reality of professional sport.
“I’m comfortable in my own skin, who I am and what I’ve done. But nobody is perfect. Life is about accepting setbacks and mistakes and moving forward. I think I’m a better coach for the experience, I feel well rested.”
“The minute I spoke to this club, it just felt right for me”
Graham Potter answers questions for the first time since becoming the new West Ham boss ⚒️ pic.twitter.com/VVWAYwwSrb
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 9, 2025
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Potter: ‘Important I waited for the right role’
Potter, who has also impressed in charge of Swansea and Ostersunds as well as with the Seagulls, has been regularly linked with managerial roles during his 20-month spell out of management.
The 49-year-old was named as a contender to succeed Gareth Southgate as England boss before Thomas Tuchel, who Potter replaced at Chelsea, was appointed.
Potter said: “It’s been 20 months, a good break. I’ve had conversations with different directors, owners, but it think it was important I chose the right option at the right time.
“When I spoke to this club it felt right. I think it’s a good fit.”
On why West Ham was the right club, he said: “When you’ve had lots of time to think there’s a feeling in you, a combination of lots of factors.
“The board’s ambition, their trust and belief in me, looking at the playing squad, the academy, the work that Mark Noble does behind the scenes there. The supporters are passionate, knowledgeable, loyal.
“When you add it all up it’s a massive club, It’s a family club and that appeals to me too, that sense of fighting together.”
Potter: ‘I feel lucky to be at West Ham’
After choosing the London Stadium as his next destination, Potter reiterated how privileged he felt to be given the opportunity with the Premier League club.
He added: “I consider myself lucky to be here, thankful to be here. I apologise that my name has been linked [with lots of clubs], everybody is sick of it.
“I’m here now, very happy and proud and privileged to be in this position. I hope I can do a good job and the supporters are positive towards me. So far the support has been great, the words of encouragement have been touching.”
Potter confirms backroom staff
Graham Potter confirmed he will be joined by former Brighton skipper Bruno Saltor (assistant coach), Billy Reid (first team coach) and Narcis Pelach (first team coach) at West Ham.
“That’s the core group,” Potter said on his management team. “I’m looking forward to working with the staff here at the club.”
Potter’s first game in charge will be away at Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Friday night before hosting Fulham the following Tuesday.
