Julen Lopetegui is just seven games into his tenure as West Ham manager, yet doubts about his future at the club are already emerging.
A mix of disappointing performances, just one win across all competitions, and rumors of discord within the dressing room are sparking speculation about yet another managerial change at the London Stadium.
The fanbase appears divided on Lopetegui’s position. Some supporters have seen enough and want him gone, while others advocate for patience, understanding the complexities involved in the transition process led by the former Real Madrid manager.
It’s important to note that the four losses Lopetegui has experienced this season were against Aston Villa, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool—teams that are all formidable opponents.
However, concerns about the quality of performances and the absence of a clear style of play have raised questions about Lopetegui’s ability to build upon the foundation laid by David Moyes over the past four years.
He noted: “West Ham appears poised to continue with Lopetegui for now.
“While there are indications of tension within the squad and the results and performances have been lacking,
they don’t have a clear Plan B to fall back on, meaning Lopetegui is likely to be given a chance to turn things around.”
The absence of a Plan B is particularly concerning, as it suggests that if an alternative strategy becomes available soon, the club may act quickly to make a change if results don’t improve in the coming weeks and months.
However, Lopetegui is not the frontrunner to be the next Premier League manager to be dismissed. In fact, he ranks fifth among the bookies’ favorites for the next top-flight boss to be sacked.
Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag is currently the favorite, followed by Southampton’s Russell Martin, Wolves’ Gary O’Neil, and Everton’s Sean Dyche, all ahead of Lopetegui in the odds.
