Julen Lopetegui is confronting two critical matches at West Ham, who have utilized the international break to investigate potential successors. Despite the club clinging to the hope that the Spaniard can turn the tide, confidence in the manager is waning, and there is a significant possibility of him being dismissed this month.
It is understood that much will hinge on how West Ham perform when they travel to Newcastle on Monday and host Arsenal the following Saturday. Defeats in these fixtures could have severe consequences for Lopetegui, who is under immense pressure following a lackluster start. There is even a chance that a heavy loss to Newcastle could force West Ham's hand.
David Sullivan, West Ham's major shareholder, has been hesitant to make mid-season managerial changes. However, concern over Lopetegui's performance is mounting, and it is understood that discussions have taken place regarding a potential change. West Ham, who are five points clear of the relegation zone after winning three of their 10 games, have not yet identified a preferred replacement for Lopetegui, who took over from David Moyes last summer.
They have considered former Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzic and have conducted internal checks on Kasper Hjulmand, Roger Schmidt, and Stuttgart's Sebastian Hoeness. The Guardian understands that other coaches are also in the running. Both long-term and short-term appointments are being contemplated. Graham Potter, the former Chelsea manager, is available, but West Ham have never seemed particularly interested in him.
The atmosphere at the London Stadium was subdued when West Ham were held to a goalless draw by Everton in their most recent match. Key players are underperforming, and questions have been raised about Lopetegui's tactics. The football has been lackluster, new players have struggled to settle, and there have been disciplinary issues. Concerns over recruitment have also led to scrutiny of the technical director, Tim Steidten. There have been reports that Steidten is not fully supportive of Lopetegui, but it is understood that the German was involved in the process that led to the 58-year-old's appointment.
West Ham would prefer not to be forced into sacking Lopetegui so quickly. He is an experienced coach and has maintained that he will oversee an improvement given time. Lopetegui has previously managed Porto, Sevilla, Wolves, Spain, and Real Madrid. He became available after leaving Wolves at the beginning of last season.
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