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West Ham United forward Jarrod Bowen and manager Nuno Espirito Santo faced the press after the club’s painful relegation from the Premier League on Sunday. Despite heavy speculation about his future, Bowen made it clear that his focus remains on helping the Hammers earn an immediate return to the top division next season. Meanwhile, Nuno expressed regret to the fans for the disappointing outcome but stopped short of confirming whether he would continue in charge.

West Ham relegated on the final day

West Ham’s 14-year stay in the Premier League came to an end as they were relegated to the Championship. The Hammers managed a 3-0 victory over Leeds United in their final home match, thanks to second-half goals from Taty Castellanos, Bowen, and Callum Wilson. However, Tottenham Hotspur’s win against Everton saw them finish two points ahead, confirming West Ham’s drop. Bowen, who joined the club from Hull City in January 2020, has made 280 appearances over six years and become a fan favourite, but speculation linking him with a summer move has intensified.

Bowen addresses questions about his future

After the match, the 29-year-old winger, whose contract runs until June 30, 2030, was asked about his plans amid growing transfer rumours. Bowen said, “Listen, it’s still very, very raw. Talking about futures is disrespectful to the club, the fans, everything like that. I’m under contract here. There’s going to be rumours, there’s going to be talk, but ultimately what I see is getting this club back in the Premier League. I’ve had some really good moments here. This is a really hard moment. You never know what the future holds, but I want to see this club back in the Premier League and right now my vision is to get this club back in the Premier League.”

Nuno expresses regret to supporters

Manager Nuno, who took over from Graham Potter in September, apologised to the club’s fans but avoided making any commitments about his own future or that of key players. “It’s a moment of deep sadness for all of us at the club,” Nuno said. “It was a tough day, we had a tough mission, we lost the privilege of deciding our own future. If you ask me now about the past and the future, I don’t think it’s the best days to understand the moment of sadness of our fans, of ourselves, of the club, and apologise and thank them for all of the support they gave us. It was a strange season in terms of points, normally 39 I think in the last 10 years or so has given the teams enough to keep safe. We improved, but it’s not enough.”

What lies ahead for Bowen and West Ham?

West Ham now face the challenge of competing in the Championship, with the aim of securing immediate promotion back to the Premier League. The club will have to make crucial decisions regarding the managerial position and potential player sales during the summer to manage their finances. As for Bowen, his short-term focus will be on recuperation before pre-season begins, and supporters will be hopeful that he spearheads their campaign to return to the top flight.