There’s a growing narrative around West Ham United F.C. that their remarkable turnaround in the Premier League may not be down to head coach Nuno Espirito Santo after all. Instead, according to pundit Jamie Carragher, the real architect behind the Hammers’ resurgence could be assistant coach Paco Jemez.
At the turn of the year, West Ham’s situation looked bleak. They were effectively cut adrift in the relegation battle—eight points behind Nottingham Forest F.C. and a daunting 12 behind Tottenham Hotspur F.C.. Survival seemed unlikely, and criticism of the club’s direction—both on and off the pitch—was growing louder by the week.
Fast forward to now, and the picture has dramatically changed. The Hammers have clawed their way back to level points with Forest and sit just one point behind Spurs heading into the final stretch of the season. It’s a revival that has sparked debate: who deserves the credit?
Carragher Points to Jemez, Not Nuno
While many have praised Nuno for steadying the ship after replacing Graham Potter, Carragher has offered a different perspective. Speaking on Sky Sports, the former Liverpool F.C. defender suggested that Jemez’s influence behind the scenes has been the real game-changer.
Carragher downplayed the impact of January signings—particularly strikers Valentin Castellanos and Pablo—arguing that their contribution has been overstated. Instead, he highlighted the tactical evolution of the team and the renewed attacking intent, something widely attributed to Jemez’s philosophy.
“I don’t think the new strikers have been that special,” Carragher explained. “It’s more from the wide players… and the attacking coach who has come in. He’s had a big impact.”
That “attacking coach” is Jemez—a figure already gaining cult status among supporters.
The Jemez Effect
Known for his bold, front-foot approach, Jemez has wasted little time making his mark. His reputation for combining defensive organisation with aggressive attacking play has been evident in West Ham’s performances.
One defining moment came on the touchline, when Jemez reportedly challenged Nuno’s decision to make a defensive substitution. With the introduction of Max Kilman being considered to protect a lead, Jemez pushed for a more attacking option instead. It was a rare public glimpse into his influence—and his willingness to challenge authority for the benefit of the team.
That mentality appears to have filtered through to the players. West Ham now look more adventurous, more confident, and far less predictable going forward.
The improvement of wide players such as Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville has been particularly noticeable. Their ability to stretch defenses and create chances has become a key weapon in West Ham’s survival push.
Results Backing It Up
The numbers tell a compelling story. Since early January, West Ham have lost just two of their last 12 matches—a run that has completely transformed their season.
Even their heavy 5-2 defeat to Liverpool painted a misleading picture. Carragher himself admitted the Hammers were arguably the better side that day, with the scoreline failing to reflect their performance. It’s a sign of a team playing with renewed belief rather than desperation.
If this form continues, survival is not just possible—it’s increasingly likely.
Bigger Questions Off the Pitch
Despite the positivity on the field, uncertainty remains off it. Debate continues around a potential full takeover by Daniel Kretinsky, whose involvement has divided opinion among fans.
Some supporters fear a profit-driven model, citing his business track record, while others question his long-term commitment to the club. There are even calls for alternative investors who might better match the club’s ambitions.
But as is often the case in football, results have a way of shaping narratives. Continued improvement under Jemez and Nuno could ease tensions and shift focus back to the pitch.
A Survival Story in the Making?
Whether or not Jemez ultimately takes center stage remains to be seen. For now, he operates in the background—an influential but understated figure.
Yet if West Ham complete what once seemed an impossible escape, his role will be impossible to ignore.
Carragher has already made his stance clear: this turnaround isn’t just about the man in the dugout—it’s about the mind behind the tactics.
And if the Hammers do stay up, Paco Jemez may well go from cult hero to club legend almost overnight. ⚒️
