After Chelsea’s turbulent reign, I am now a “better” and “smarter” coach
New West Ham manager Graham Potter insists he is a “better” and “smarter” 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 tenure at Stramford Bridge, winning just seven of his 22 Premier League games.
But although his reputation, previously built through his time at Brighton, has suffered a setback, 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 this experience and more rested.” I was a manager for 12 years, the break did me good and gave me the opportunity to develop myself to rest and think.
“Now I’m here and I’m happy.
“We don’t have that preparation time, that’s the reality, but I’m a little wiser. I think there is an ideal time, but sometimes when the opportunity comes you have to take it. We have a great week ahead of us.”
Asked if he now feels the need to prove himself again, Potter added: “When I hear (Pep) Guardiola saying he has something to prove, then we all do!” It’s the reality of professional sport.
“I feel comfortable in my skin, who I am and what I have done. But nobody is perfect. Life is about accepting setbacks and mistakes and moving forward. I think I’m the better coach for this experience, I feel rested.”
“When I spoke to this club it just felt right to me”
Graham Potter answers questions for the first time since being appointed new West Ham boss ⚒️ pic.twitter.com/VVWAYwwSrb
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 9, 2025
Potter: “Important, I was waiting for the right role”
Potter, who has also impressed as coach of Swansea and Ostersunds as well as the Seagulls, has been regularly linked with senior positions during his 20-month absence as manager.
The 49-year-old was considered a contender to succeed Gareth Southgate as England manager before Thomas Tuchel was appointed, who Potter replaced at Chelsea.
Potter said: “It’s been 20 months, a good break. I have had discussions with various directors and owners, but I think it was important that 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 have had a lot of time to think, there is a feeling inside you, a combination of many factors.
“The ambition of the board, their trust and belief in me, the look at the playing team, the academy, the work that Mark Noble is doing there behind the scenes. The supporters are passionate, knowledgeable and loyal.
“When you add it all up, it’s a huge club. It’s a family club and I like that too, this feeling 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 get the opportunity to play for the Premier League club.
He added: “I feel lucky to be here and grateful to be here. I apologize for my name being associated (with many clubs), everyone is tired of it.
“I’m here now, very happy and proud and privileged to be in this position. I hope that I can do a good job and that the supporters are positive towards me. The support so far has been great and the encouraging words have been touching.”
Potter acknowledges the staff in the back room
Graham Potter confirmed he will be joined at West Ham by former Brighton captain Bruno Saltor (assistant coach), Billy Reid (first team coach) and Narcis Pelach (first team coach).
“This is the core group,” Potter said of his management team. “I’m looking forward to working with the staff here at the club.”
Potter’s first game as manager is away to Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Friday evening before hosting Fulham the following Tuesday.
