Paco Jemez, the assistant manager at West Ham United, has openly stated his unwavering loyalty to his former club, Rayo Vallecano. The Spanish tactician revealed he would immediately accept the managerial position at Rayo should it become available, a testament to his deep connection with the Madrid-based team.
Since arriving at West Ham earlier in the year, Jemez has been instrumental in the club’s resurgence. Working alongside Nuno Espirito Santo, the Hammers have dramatically improved their Premier League standing, securing a crucial 12-point advantage over relegation rivals Tottenham Hotspur and an eight-point lead over Nottingham Forest.
Despite his commitment to West Ham’s current fight for survival, Jemez’s heart clearly remains with Rayo Vallecano. He expressed this sentiment with striking brevity, stating that he needs “half a second” to return to the club if they come calling.
Jemez previously managed Rayo Vallecano across two successful spells, from 2012 to 2020. During his tenure, he guided the team to their highest-ever La Liga finish – a remarkable eighth place – establishing a distinct and captivating style of play.
Under Jemez’s leadership, Rayo Vallecano didn’t just compete; they dominated possession. They consistently ranked among Europe’s elite, boasting the fourth-highest possession statistics in major leagues, trailing only giants like Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich.
The impact of Jemez’s arrival at West Ham has been palpable. He’s credited with injecting a renewed sense of belief and intensity into the squad, transforming the atmosphere within the training ground and fostering a genuine conviction that they can avoid relegation.
When playfully asked if he would consider having Nuno Espirito Santo as his assistant at Rayo Vallecano, Jemez responded with a laugh, suggesting a reciprocal arrangement would be necessary – a lighthearted acknowledgement of the current dynamic at West Ham.
West Ham officials are undoubtedly aware of Jemez’s unwavering affection for Rayo Vallecano and will be hoping their Spanish counterparts do not make a formal approach. His presence on the bench has proven invaluable, and losing him now could jeopardize their hard-fought progress.
