West Ham United have announced that Julen Lopetegui has been sacked as manager, with Graham Potter reportedly set to replace him.
West Ham’s disappointing appointment of Lopetegui in the summer was widely criticized after he replaced David Moyes at the London Stadium.
The Hammers faithful were fed up with Moyes’ pragmatic tactical approach and called for an overhaul, but Lopetegui was an equal successor.
Although the London side had a successful summer and secured a good contract (on paper at least), Lopetegui failed to reach the team’s full potential and it was announced on Wednesday afternoon that he had lost his job.
The former Wolves and Real Madrid manager leaves West Ham 14th in the Premier League, seven points out of the relegation zone. They have won just two of their last eight games.
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“West Ham United can confirm that head coach Julen Lopetegui has left the club today,” the club said in a statement.
“The first half of the 2024/25 season was not consistent with the club’s objectives and the club therefore acted in line with its objectives.”
“The club also announces the immediate departure of assistant head coach Pablo Sanz, head of performance Oscar Caro, head analyst Juan Vicente Peinado, fitness coach Borja de Alba and technical coach Edu Rubio. You can check
“The board would like to thank Julen and his staff for their hard work during their time with the Hammers and wish them every success in the future.”
“The process to appoint a replacement is underway.
“The club will have no further comment at this time.”
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Former Chelsea and Brighton manager Graham Potter has recently been linked with West Ham, with a report in the Guardian revealing that West Ham have “agreed” to his “contract demands”.
“West Ham have sacked Julen Lopetegui following positive progress in negotiations with Graham Potter. Potter is close to agreeing a two-and-a-half year contract to become the club’s manager.”
“The lunchtime press conference with Lopetegui was canceled on Wednesday morning and, barring any unforeseen issues, Potter will be in charge for Friday’s FA Cup game at Aston Villa.”
“The process stalled on Tuesday as West Ham wanted Mr Potter to remain in charge until the end of the season, while the former Brighton and Chelsea manager was seeking a long-term contract.”
“West Ham have agreed in principle to Potter’s request for a contract until 2027, and although a contract has not yet been signed, there is no way for him to return as manager for the first time since leaving Chelsea seven months later in April 2023. It’s obvious.”
Mr Lopetegui is believed to have returned to work as usual on Wednesday morning, awaiting confirmation of his resignation. He attended training on Tuesday despite knowing of West Ham’s decision to sack him, but canceled a team meal scheduled for Tuesday night.
