Nuno Espirito Santo to hand West Ham United sensation first-ever Premier League start vs Manchester United

Nuno Espírito Santo is facing a significant selection headache as West Ham United prepare for a challenging trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United on Thursday evening.

 

The Hammers travel north still recovering from their 2–0 defeat to Liverpool at the London Stadium—a result that has done little to boost confidence within the squad. On top of that, West Ham must now contend with the suspension of Lucas Paquetá, whose recent red card has ruled him out of the upcoming fixture. The Brazilian’s absence removes one of Nuno’s most creative midfield influences, compounding an already difficult situation.

 

George Earthy could be handed his first Premier League start

 

With Paquetá unavailable and Crysencio Summerville also sidelined through injury, Nuno may be forced to look deeper into his squad for solutions. One player who could benefit from this reshuffle is George Earthy, a talented 21-year-old midfielder who has yet to feature in the Premier League this season.

 

Earthy made his top-flight debut in April 2024 and appeared twice more before the previous campaign concluded. Over the summer, West Ham debated sending him out on loan again, especially after his impressive spell at Bristol City where he enjoyed a full season of regular senior football. However, the club ultimately opted to keep him at the London Stadium, hoping he could continue his development within their own setup.

 

This season, Earthy has been a standout performer for the Under-21s, consistently demonstrating maturity, technical quality, and a willingness to take responsibility on the pitch. With options thinning for Nuno, the youngster may finally be handed a starting opportunity against Manchester United—a daunting challenge, but also a chance to showcase his ability on a big stage.

 

A low-pressure environment could benefit Earthy

 

Given West Ham’s underdog status heading into the match, the expectations placed on Earthy would be relatively modest. The responsibility to transform the game will not fall on his shoulders, yet he possesses the ability to produce moments of real quality. His highlight-reel solo goal against Truro earlier this season was a reminder of the level he can reach, and it raised further questions about whether he has outgrown reserve-team football.

 

Is this the season Earthy cements himself as a squad player?

 

Now a year and a half removed from his senior debut and having completed a productive loan spell, Earthy appears ready to transition into a more permanent first-team role. West Ham’s bench has often lacked creativity and dynamism this season, and the 21-year-old may offer exactly the kind of spark Nuno needs in the second half of matches.

 

No one at the club—neither the manager nor the fans—is expecting him to break into the starting XI immediately. However, if Earthy can accumulate 10 to 15 league appearances, primarily as an impact substitute, it would represent a major step in his development and strengthen his case to become a regular starter in the next couple of seasons.

 

For now, the opportunity is there. With injuries mounting and Paquetá suspended, the door has opened for Earthy to stake his claim. If he continues on his current trajectory, there is every reason to believe he can establish himself as a valuable squad player for West Ham this season—and potentially much more in the near future.