West Ham United have parted ways with Julen Lopetegui just seven months into his tenure as head coach.
Lopetegui, who joined the club in May 2024 on a two-year contract, leaves with the team struggling in 14th place in the Premier League, just seven points above the relegation zone.
The decision follows a string of poor performances, including heavy defeats to Liverpool and Manchester City. Lopetegui oversaw just seven wins in 22 matches, a record that failed to meet the club’s ambitions.
Along with Lopetegui, several members of his backroom staff, including assistant coach Pablo Sanz and head of performance Oscar Caro, have also left the club.
In a statement, West Ham acknowledged the need for change: “The first half of the 2024/25 season has not aligned with the club’s ambitions, and the club has therefore taken action in line with its objectives.” The club thanked Lopetegui and his staff for their efforts and wished them success in the future.
The Hammers are now in advanced talks with Graham Potter, the former Chelsea and Brighton manager, to take over the reins. Although Potter is the frontrunner, it is unlikely that a permanent appointment will be finalized before West Ham’s FA Cup third-round tie against Aston Villa.
Potter, who has been out of management since leaving Chelsea in April 2023, has expressed his desire to return to coaching.
Speaking in October, he revealed his openness to both club and international roles, emphasizing his passion for developing players and teams.
His track record, which includes guiding Brighton to Premier League stability and reaching the Champions League quarterfinals with Chelsea, makes him an attractive candidate for West Ham.
While speculation linked David Moyes with a potential third spell at the club, reports indicate that Potter is West Ham’s preferred choice. If appointed, Potter will be tasked with steering the team away from relegation danger and reviving their fortunes in the league.
West Ham fans will be eager to see if a change in management can bring stability and success back to the London Stadium in the second half of the season