West Ham United have parted ways with head coach Julen Lopetegui following a disappointing start to the Premier League season. The Spaniard, who replaced David Moyes last summer, lasted only 20 league matches, winning just six despite a transfer spend exceeding £130 million.
Lopetegui’s dismissal comes after a 4-1 loss to Manchester City, leaving the Hammers in 14th place. Graham Potter is the leading candidate to replace him, with talks reportedly progressing positively between the former Chelsea and Brighton manager and West Ham officials.
West Ham’s defensive frailties have been a major issue, with the team suffering six defeats by three or more goals this season, including a 5-1 Carabao Cup loss to Liverpool. Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher commented earlier this week that the team’s poor performances reflected deeper problems, saying, “Whenever they get beat, they get beat badly. I was expecting this three or four weeks ago.”
Despite flashes of attacking promise, Lopetegui struggled to stabilize the squad, with inconsistent form ultimately costing him his position. The club’s board had previously debated his future after a 3-1 defeat to Leicester in December but gave him a brief reprieve. However, results failed to improve.
West Ham now face a critical run of fixtures, including an FA Cup clash against Aston Villa on January 10 and key Premier League matches against Fulham and Crystal Palace. The board hopes a managerial change will rejuvenate the team as they aim to climb the league table.
Fans and players alike await confirmation of the next head coach, with Graham Potter poised to take the reins and usher in a new chapter at the London Stadium.
