​The dust is still settling on a heart-wrenching campaign at the London Stadium, and as West Ham United prepares for its first season of Championship football in 14 years, the reality of relegation is beginning to hit home. Despite a defiant 3-0 victory over Leeds United on the final day, the Hammers’ fate was sealed by results elsewhere, bringing an end to a 14-year top-flight tenure.

​Now, the focus has shifted from the pitch to the transfer market, where a major squad overhaul appears inevitable. With Nuno Espírito Santo confirmed to stay on as head coach—tasked with a mission to bounce straight back—the club faces the difficult challenge of balancing the books while keeping a squad capable of navigating the brutal Championship landscape.

​The Triple Exit: Areola, Todibo, and Kilman

​Reports are intensifying that three high-profile names could be the first to leave East London. According to recent updates, Alphonse Areola, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Max Kilman are all being tipped for exits.

​The situation surrounding Areola and Todibo appears to be the most volatile. Following the team’s relegation, it is understood that both players have had “disagreements and frustrations” regarding their playing time and the direction of the club under Nuno. Todibo’s season ended in controversy after he was reportedly dropped from the squad, while Areola—once a staple of the starting XI—has also found himself on the fringes. With both players attracting interest from top-tier European clubs, their departures seem increasingly likely as they seek to continue their careers at the highest level.

​The Kilman Conundrum

​Meanwhile, the situation with Max Kilman is more nuanced. While the defender is also expected to depart, the consensus is that a loan move is the most probable outcome. Kilman found himself out of favor following the arrival of Axel Disasi in January, but with Disasi returning to Chelsea, the defensive landscape at the London Stadium is shifting.

​For many fans, the idea of Kilman leaving on a permanent deal is baffling. While he may have faced struggles during the Premier League relegation scrap, he remains a defender with the pedigree to dominate the Championship. If Nuno can convince him that he has a key role to play in a promotion push, a loan could prove to be a masterstroke rather than a loss.

​Rebuilding for the Championship

​The stakes for Nuno Espírito Santo could not be higher. Having secured 39 points—the highest tally for a relegated team in 15 years—the board has shown faith in his vision by keeping him in the dugout. However, as the club transitions, the priority must be squad stability. Losing Areola, Todibo, and Kilman all at once would leave a massive void in experience and quality.

​As West Ham looks ahead to the 2026/27 season, the “rebuild” is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. Whether Nuno can convince his remaining stars to buy into the Championship mission, or if he is forced to oversee an exodus, will define the early stages of this critical summer.