Julen Lopetegui will remain in charge of West Ham for their crucial Premier League clash with Wolves on Monday.
This comes despite increasing scrutiny of his position as manager.
Speculation surrounding Lopetegui’s future intensified after Tuesday’s 3-1 defeat by Leicester City, which marked West Ham’s second straight defeat following an earlier home defeat by Arsenal.
However, multiple sources have confirmed that the club’s board have opted to keep the Spanish coach, at least for the time being.
Earlier reports suggested that a decision on Lopetegui’s immediate future would be made before the weekend.
While club officials acknowledge that recent results have dampened the optimism sparked by the Hammers’ impressive 1-0 win at Newcastle at the end of November, they have opted to give Lopetegui another chance to right the ship.
Senior Hammers officials are considering the Spaniard’s position. #WHUFC pic.twitter.com/WltAUCrayo
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) December 5, 2024
The decision to back Lopetegui comes despite growing discontent among fans, many of whom are calling for a change of manager.
The defeat at Leicester highlighted West Ham’s ongoing struggles, particularly in taking chances – despite 30 shots on target – and defensive errors that allowed their opponents to score too easily.
West Ham’s upcoming game against Wolves will be pivotal for both teams, with Wolves manager Gary O’Neill also under intense pressure following Wednesday’s 3-0 defeat by Everton.
Graham Potter, the former Brighton and Chelsea boss, has been linked with the West Ham job should the club decide to part ways with Lopetegui.
However, for now, the Hammers appear committed to sticking with their current manager.
West Ham’s upcoming schedule could define their season – and potentially Lopetegui’s tenure.
After facing Wolves, the Hammers will face Bournemouth, Brighton and Southampton before testing out clashes with title contenders Liverpool and Manchester City.
With the pressure mounting and time running out to turn the season around, all eyes will be on Monday’s clash at the London Stadium to see if Lopetegui can deliver the results the club so desperately need.
