Julen Lopetegui has been replaced as manager of West Ham United by Graham Potter.
After a generally lackluster term in command, Lopetegui was fired on Wednesday. The team is currently seven points above the bottom three and in 14th place in the Premier League.
In an attempt to boost their season, the Hammers have now turned to Potter, who previously played for Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion.
Although Potter has committed to a two-and-a-half-year contract at London Stadium, there are rumors that he may have a six-month break option if specific goals are not reached.
“I am delighted to be here. It was important to me that I waited until a job came along that I felt was right for me, and equally that I was the right fit for the club I am joining. That is the feeling I have with West Ham United,” Potter told the club website.
And speaking to the media for the first time since his appointment on Thursday, Potter reiterated his pride and excitement in taking on the new challenge.
“Very excited, very proud,” he said. “Proud day to be head coach of this amazing club. Big tradition, big history, big expectation, big challenge.
“I’m really excited, it’s almost a bit like Christmas. Christmas for the adults, not the best of sleeps last night but just from the excitement. Really looking forward to meeting the players, meeting the supporters and just getting going.
“It’s been 20 months, 20 months of a good rest. In that time you speak to a lot of people. Lots of conversations with different owners, different directors.
“But it was important I pick the right option for me at the right time. As soon as I spoke to this club it just felt right for me.
“It’s an amazing club with a tremendous loyal fanbase that is passionate, knowledgeable, knows the football and knows what they want.
“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 set-backs and mistakes and moving forward. I think I’m a better coach for the experience, I feel well-rested.”
The move represents an important appointment for the 49-year-old, who has been patient in waiting for his next opportunity following a difficult seven months in charge of Chelsea.
“But it was important I pick the right option for me at the right time. As soon as I spoke to this club it just felt right for me.
“It’s an amazing club with a tremendous loyal fanbase that is passionate, knowledgeable, knows the football and knows what they want.
“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 set-backs and mistakes and moving forward. I think I’m a better coach for the experience, I feel well-rested.”
The move represents an important appointment for the 49-year-old, who has been patient in waiting for his next opportunity following a difficult seven months in charge of Chelsea.
