West Ham United have been tipped for relegation in a bold prediction from talkSPORT pundit Rory Jennings.

As part of his preview for the 2025/26 Premier League season, Jennings placed the Hammers in his bottom three, a call that’s already stirring debate.

“Genuine Relegation Candidates” Under Potter

Jennings pointed to Graham Potter’s appointment as the key reason behind his prediction, suggesting the manager doesn’t match the club’s character or spirit.

“I’ve never known a manager who is so not befitting the club,” Jennings told talkSPORT.

“West Ham United are a proud club with a rich history, with a chip on their shoulder and a very passionate and vocal fanbase. None of that chimes with the man that Graham Potter is.”

He added:

“Nothing about West Ham United sits comfortably with Graham Potter at the helm. Whilst he is there, I think they are genuine relegation candidates.”

The Irons haven’t been relegated since the 2011/12 season, but according to Jennings, that run could be coming to an end.

Sunderland and Burnley Also Named

Jennings didn’t stop with West Ham. He also named Sunderland and Burnley among his three predicted teams to go down.

Sunderland, who are returning to the top flight after eight years, were described by Jennings as being slightly ahead of schedule.

“I think the Premier League is a better place with big, prestigious clubs like Sunderland in the top flight,” he said.
“But I think they’ve got their work cut out. On some level, I feel like they’ve been promoted a touch too early.”

Burnley were also tipped to drop, although Jennings didn’t go into detail about their situation.

A Prediction That’ll Spark Debate

Pre-season predictions always get people talking, and this one hits especially close for West Ham fans coming to terms with life under a new manager.

With Potter now in charge and expectations split, Jennings’ remarks are sure to keep the spotlight on the claret and blue in the weeks leading up to kick-off.