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Vitor Pereira handed Premier League survival blow as relegation rivals set to hire former Wolves manager

Wolves have made a poor start to the season, struggling to find form and sitting at the bottom of the table, but one of their fellow relegation-threatened rivals has just received a major boost.

Both Wolves and West Ham have endured turbulent campaigns, drawing criticism from fans and pundits alike.

While Fosun has shown faith in Vitor Pereira with a new contract, despite the tough start, West Ham have not afforded the same patience to their under-pressure boss.

Position Team Played MP Won W Drawn D Lost L For GF Against GA Diff GD Points Pts
18 Aston VillaAston Villa5 0 3 2 1 5 -4 3
19 West HamWest Ham5 1 0 4 5 13 -8 3
20 WolvesWolves5 0 0 5 3 12 -9 0

The Hammers moved swiftly after sacking Graham Potter, immediately setting their sights on a high-profile replacement.

This development could make Wolves’ fight to avoid the drop even more difficult as the season progresses.

West Ham set to appoint Nuno Espirito Santo after Graham Potter sacking

Potter, who was once linked with the Wolves job, turned the opportunity down as he felt it wasn’t the right project for him at the time.

The West Midlands outfit and West Ham have a history of sharing managers in recent years, with Julen Lopetegui having been sacked by both clubs.

Now, Potter has been dismissed, and West Ham are reportedly lining up a former Wolves boss as his successor.

It was also reported that Jorge Mendes held talks with West Ham United about Vitor Pereira before his new Wolves deal.

However, as reported by journalist Alex Crook, Nuno Espirito Santo has agreed to become West Ham’s new manager, and he could be in charge for their match against Everton on Monday.

He said: ” Nuno Espirito Santo has agreed terms with WHUFC. Could be in the dugout as early as Monday.

“Head of recruitment Kyle Macauley following Potter out of the club.”

In recent weeks, it was reported that Nuno was being monitored by West Ham; however the London club have now followed up on their previous interest.

Nuno’s relegation track record is a concern for Wolves

Nuno has previously taken charge of Nottingham Forest in a similar situation, guiding them away from relegation and eventually into contention for European football the following season.

This is troubling news for Wolves, with one of their relegation rivals now appointing a manager with a proven record of turning struggling teams around.

Tottenham Hotspur FC v Nottingham Forest FC - Premier League
Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Nuno also boasts a strong record against Wolves when in charge of Forest and Spurs, meaning West Ham’s visit to Molineux, as well as Wolves’ trip to London, will be particularly tricky fixtures.

The former Wolves boss brings experience and tactical know-how that could tip the balance in favour of his new side in these crucial clashes.

Following Nuno’s appointment, Pereira faces even greater pressure to deliver results, as Wolves can no longer rely on rivals stumbling in the relegation battle.