Beautiful thing happening at West Ham next week and it could change everything

West Ham United supporters have reason to feel hopeful as a crucial period for the club begins next week, one that could be pivotal in shaping the direction of the season. After a difficult start under Julen Lopetegui, the upcoming stretch of fixtures offers a chance to build momentum and potentially change the trajectory of what has been a frustrating campaign so far. The season has been far from ideal for the Hammers, with the team struggling for form and consistency. While some point to the fact that Lopetegui has only been in charge for 11 Premier League games, it’s important to note that he was confirmed as manager back in May, giving him ample time to implement his ideas. Therefore, the excuse of a lack of time to settle in is no longer a valid one. West Ham fans have every right to expect better performances by now, but the results have been disappointing. The team’s struggles were on full display in their most recent match, a lackluster 0-0 draw with Everton. Such results have led to questions about Lopetegui’s future, with many wondering if the club’s owners will act if things don’t improve soon. The next two matches—against Newcastle and Arsenal—are seen as crucial for Lopetegui’s tenure. With Arsenal looming as a particularly tough fixture, many believe these could be his final games in charge if the performances and results don’t improve.

In addition to the managerial uncertainty, the season has been further disrupted by a series of international breaks. These breaks, which have occurred in September, October, and November, have frustrated fans and players alike, preventing any real rhythm or consistency from building. For a team like West Ham, which has several new players, the frequent interruptions have made it difficult to gain a sense of cohesion. Fans have expressed their frustration with the broken nature of the season, which has made it hard to truly get behind the team. The international breaks have been especially difficult given West Ham’s absence from European competition this year, which had previously filled their midweeks and kept the team in regular action.

However, there is a glimmer of hope for the Hammers. Starting next week, West Ham will enter a run of up to 20 consecutive matches without interruption from international football or winter breaks. This long stretch of fixtures represents a significant opportunity for the team to find their rhythm and build some much-needed momentum. It begins with a tough away match against Newcastle on Monday, followed by a series of important games in quick succession. The team will play at least four matches over the next two weeks, which could provide the platform they need to turn things around. From December 16th through to March 15th, the team will have a packed schedule, including an FA Cup tie in January, giving them the chance to play a minimum of 15 more matches in that period. This extended run of games is exactly what West Ham needs to overcome the inconsistency that has plagued them so far. The regular schedule, with no international interruptions, will allow the team to train together more effectively, develop a stronger understanding, and hopefully improve their performances on the pitch.

For fans who have been starved of consistent action this season, this uninterrupted period represents a long-awaited chance to reconnect with the team and see how the new-look squad performs in a regular rhythm. If things don’t improve under Lopetegui, it’s also worth noting that any potential new manager would benefit from the same run of fixtures. The absence of international breaks could be a blessing for a new boss, allowing them to settle in and make their mark without disruptions. As the international windows finally come to an end, West Ham’s season could be poised to truly get underway. Whether under Lopetegui or a new manager, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the rest of the season unfolds. Fans will be hoping that this uninterrupted period will allow the team to build the momentum they need to salvage what has so far been a frustrating campaign.