Julen Lopetegui is facing pressure at West Ham United after a poor start to the season. The team has won only three of their first ten Premier League games and is dangerously close to the relegation zone. Recently, they lost 3-0 to Nottingham Forest, and Lopetegui apologized to the fans for the defeat. West Ham is now considering his future, with rumors that a loss to Everton on Saturday could lead to a review of his position.
If Lopetegui is let go, the club is already looking at potential replacements. Former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic, who has ties to West Ham, is reportedly a candidate. Terzic, who managed Dortmund from 2020 to 2023, has an attacking coaching style, using a 4-3-3 formation. His time at Dortmund saw the team win the German Cup and reach the Champions League final. Terzic also worked as an assistant manager at West Ham from 2015 to 2017, giving him familiarity with the club.
Another candidate for the job is Graham Potter, the former Brighton & Hove Albion and Chelsea manager. Potter, who has been out of work since leaving Chelsea, was previously a candidate to take over as England manager but lost out to Thomas Tuchel. Potter is known for his progressive style and would also be considered a good fit for West Ham.
Lopetegui’s job could also be under threat because of injuries and suspensions. One of the key players, Mohammed Kudus, is banned for five games after a red card for violent conduct during a match against Tottenham. Kudus had originally received a three-game ban, but it was extended after a review. He will miss the next few matches, including the crucial game against Everton. Lopetegui expressed disappointment at the ban but said the team needs to focus on the game ahead and not dwell on what they cannot control.
West Ham’s current struggles have put Lopetegui’s future in doubt, and a loss to Everton could speed up the club’s decision-making process. The team’s poor form, combined with the absence of important players like Kudus, makes Saturday’s match crucial for the manager’s future. If West Ham decides to part ways with Lopetegui, Terzic and Potter could be at the top of their list as potential replacements, offering a change of direction that fans may hope will turn the team’s fortunes around.
