Jarrod Bowen is the heart and soul of West Ham United. Last season, former manager Julen Lopetegui made the right call by naming Bowen captain, recognizing his unwavering commitment. Since joining the club, Bowen has been a model of consistency, evolving into a prolific goal scorer. He leads by example, not by being the loudest voice in the locker room. Every match, Bowen gives everything he has, though his efforts haven’t always translated to victories. Now, as captain, he faces a new season under his third manager.
In late August, as the transfer window came to a close, former manager Graham Potter publicly criticized the squad’s lack of leadership. His comments alienated veteran players and, most significantly, unsettled Bowen, the team’s captain. Striker Niclas Füllkrug, frustrated with his limited role early in the season, challenged Potter’s remarks. Rather than fostering dialogue, Potter doubled down through the media. Reports suggest Füllkrug was not upset about being overlooked as a leader himself but was offended by the implication that Bowen lacked leadership ability.
“Jarrod isn’t one to confront his coach,” a team source said. “He puts his head down, works hard, and leads by his actions on the field.”
A week after Potter’s comments, West Ham faced Nottingham Forest, and Bowen responded with two goals, narrowly missing a third due to an ill-timed interference by Callum Wilson. Post-match, Bowen took the high road, celebrating the win and praising Potter’s tactics, demonstrating his professionalism.
Potter’s Misstep with Ward-Prowse
Convinced the team needed a vocal leader, Potter turned to James Ward-Prowse, making him a mainstay in the starting lineup. Fans and players questioned why Ward-Prowse, often referred to as JWP, seemed immune to criticism despite inconsistent performances. “There’s no doubt he’s well-regarded, but players wondered why below-average play didn’t cost him his spot,” the source noted.
Potter’s insistence on Ward-Prowse eroded his credibility with the squad. While some players supported him, many grew skeptical, and West Ham fans lost confidence. Potter’s comments about leadership further alienated veterans, leading the club’s board to act. With only six wins during his tenure, Potter was replaced by Nuno Espírito Santo.
Nuno’s Immediate Impact
Two days into his tenure, Nuno sent a clear message by benching Ward-Prowse for his subpar performances, signaling that mediocrity would not be tolerated. He went further, excluding Ward-Prowse from the matchday squad against Everton entirely. The decision reaffirmed Bowen’s role as the team’s true captain. Bowen responded with a crucial game-tying goal, securing a point for West Ham and giving Nuno’s squad momentum.
Potter’s mistake was underestimating Bowen’s importance. The captain’s resilience and leadership are central to West Ham’s identity. Nuno’s arrival ensures that no one puts Bowen in a corner again.