Nuno Espírito Santo apologised for West Ham's relegation from the Premier League and declined to clarify whether he would remain as manager for next season. The Portuguese, who signed a three-year contract in September, can walk away without compensation, while the club can part company with him without paying a fee.
Despite indications that West Ham wish to keep Nuno, the former Nottingham Forest manager did nothing to dispel doubts over whether he wants to manage in the Championship. "It's not about me," he said. "We are in a tough place and West Ham has to go back in the Premier League. But now we have to go through this period of sadness, understanding the frustration and anger of the fans."
Asked when he plans to talk to the West Ham board, Nuno insisted his mind was not there. He acknowledged the club's financial strain, with losses of £104.2m last year, and anticipated speculation over players including Jarrod Bowen, Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville.
Captain Bowen also refused to discuss his future, calling it disrespectful. "I want this club to be in the Premier League," he said. "It's a club that means so much to me. My vision is to get this club back in the Premier League."
West Ham ended the season with 39 points, the highest total for a relegated side since 2011. Nuno led a revival after Christmas but ultimately fell short after replacing Graham Potter.
