When the final whistle blew at the London Stadium, the faces of West Ham United fans told the entire story. Another defeat, another performance devoid of identity, and a growing sense that the Hammers — once touted as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous mid-table sides — are crumbling under pressure. A 2-0 loss to Brentford not only deepened their crisis but also exposed gaping flaws in organization, motivation, and tactical direction.
In the aftermath of the game, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher didn’t hold back. The Liverpool legend labeled West Ham’s display as “shocking,” describing it as one of the least convincing performances he has seen from David Moyes’ men in recent years. To make matters worse, Gary O’Neil, in his post-match analysis, went even further — claiming that the Hammers “look lost” both with and without the ball.
This latest defeat has left West Ham’s supporters and pundits alike questioning whether the club has lost its way entirely. What was once a team known for grit, structure, and counter-attacking efficiency has transformed into a side struggling for ideas, confidence, and leadership.
A Performance to Forget
From the first minute, Brentford looked the more composed side. They pressed with cohesion, passed with purpose, and exploited every weakness West Ham left exposed. The Bees’ energy contrasted sharply with West Ham’s lethargy. Even with players like Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paquetá, and James Ward-Prowse on the pitch, there was a glaring absence of creativity and urgency.
By the 20th minute, the tone was already set. Brentford controlled possession, winning every second ball, while West Ham’s midfield was caught between pressing high and sitting deep — doing neither effectively. Igor Thiago’s opening goal epitomized everything that’s wrong with West Ham’s defensive shape. A routine cross wasn’t cleared, the backline froze, and Thiago pounced with a precise header into the far corner.
Instead of a rallying response, the goal seemed to drain what little energy West Ham had. Passes went astray, tackles were mistimed, and Brentford looked like they were playing at home. The London Stadium, once known for its intimidating atmosphere, grew quieter with each passing minute.
Carragher’s Brutal Verdict
Speaking after the match, Jamie Carragher offered an unfiltered assessment on Sky Sports’ post-match panel. “That was a shocking performance,” he said bluntly. “You can accept losing games — it happens in football — but it’s the manner of the defeat that should worry fans. There was no fight, no plan, and no leadership. West Ham looked like a team that didn’t know what they were supposed to do.”
Carragher highlighted several tactical concerns, pointing out how Brentford’s midfield trio completely outplayed West Ham’s double pivot. “They were overrun in the middle of the park. There’s no coordination between the lines. The attackers were isolated, and defensively, it was chaotic. That’s not the West Ham we’ve come to expect under Moyes,” he added.
It wasn’t the first time Carragher has criticized the Hammers this season, but this time, his words carried an air of finality — as if he believed something fundamental within the team had broken down.
Gary O’Neil’s Concern “They Look Lost”
Adding to the chorus of concern was Gary O’Neil, another pundit who has seen the highs and lows of English football both as a player and a manager. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, O’Neil was equally forthright.
“They look lost,” he said. “When you watch West Ham, it’s hard to tell what they’re trying to do. Are they a counter-attacking side? Are they a possession-based team? Even the players seem unsure. You can see it in their body language — there’s hesitation, confusion, and frustration.”
O’Neil suggested that the issue might not just be tactical but psychological. “Confidence is fragile. Once a team starts doubting itself, even simple things — like pressing together or making the right pass — become difficult. Right now, West Ham look like a team playing without belief.”
The Decline Since Europa Conference Glory
The most puzzling aspect of West Ham’s current struggles is how quickly things have unraveled since their Europa Conference League triumph in 2023. That victory in Prague was supposed to mark the beginning of a new era. Moyes was hailed as a hero; Declan Rice was the heart of the midfield; and fans dared to dream about European consistency.
However, since Rice’s departure to Arsenal, the team has lost its identity. Ward-Prowse was brought in to fill the creative gap, but without Rice’s defensive dominance and leadership, the midfield often looks unbalanced. Paquetá, though brilliant at times, has been inconsistent. Meanwhile, the forward line has failed to click, with Michail Antonio struggling for form and Danny Ings looking off the pace.
Carragher’s critique touched on this decline: “They had a clear identity two years ago — compact, direct, aggressive. Now, they’re stuck between two styles. The players aren’t pressing, but they’re not sitting deep either. It’s like they’re caught in limbo.”
Brentford’s Tactical Masterclass
While much of the attention focused on West Ham’s failings, Brentford deserve credit for executing their game plan to perfection. Manager Thomas Frank once again showcased his tactical acumen.
Brentford pressed high in phases, forcing errors from West Ham’s defenders. When they dropped back, their defensive structure was impeccable, cutting off passing lanes and suffocating any attempt at buildup. Mathias Jensen, in particular, was instrumental — dictating tempo and linking play effortlessly.
It was Jensen who sealed the game late on. His curling effort from the edge of the box, taking a slight deflection, left Alphonse Areola helpless and sent the away fans into raptures. At 2-0, Brentford never looked threatened. They had come with a plan — and executed it flawlessly.
The Moyes Conundrum
For David Moyes, the pressure is mounting. Though he remains one of the most experienced managers in English football, his conservative style — once effective — now appears outdated against more dynamic, fluid opposition.
Fans have grown frustrated with his reluctance to adapt. Social media was ablaze after the Brentford defeat, with hashtags like #MoyesOut trending among supporters. Some argued that the team’s lack of ambition and modern tactics are holding them back, while others defended the manager’s track record and demanded patience.
But even Carragher suggested change might be necessary. “Sometimes, even good managers run their course. Moyes has done a great job historically, but right now, West Ham look stale. Maybe a new voice or a fresh approach is what’s needed.”
Dressing Room Frustrations
Reports from inside the club suggest growing frustration among players, too. Some feel that tactical rigidity is limiting their freedom on the pitch. Paquetá, who thrives on creativity, often finds himself isolated or forced to drop deep. Bowen, usually West Ham’s talisman, looks frustrated as he’s tasked with too much defensive work.
One source close to the squad allegedly told local reporters, “The players aren’t sure what’s expected anymore. Training feels repetitive, and match plans don’t change much regardless of the opponent.”
Such sentiments, if true, underline O’Neil’s claim that the team appears “lost.” A lack of clarity from the manager can quickly erode morale, especially in a league as unforgiving as the Premier League.
Also Read:
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