Julen Lopetegui Sacked by West Ham After Poor Run of Form

West Ham United have sacked manager Julen Lopetegui after a dismal run of results left the team struggling in 14th place in the Premier League.

West Ham United has officially parted ways with manager Julen Lopetegui, following a dismal run of results that has left the team struggling in 14th place. The decision was announced on Wednesday, after days of speculation surrounding Lopetegui's future at the club.

The final straw came after West Ham's embarrassing 4-1 defeat to Manchester City over the weekend, which followed a humiliating 5-0 loss to Liverpool before the new year. Lopetegui's departure leaves the Hammers seven points above the relegation zone, a precarious position that the club hopes to improve upon with a new manager.

“West Ham United can confirm that Head Coach Julen Lopetegui has today left the Club,” the Premier League side announced in a statement. “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.”

In addition to Julen Lopetegui's departure, West Ham United has also announced the immediate exit of several coaching staff members. “The Club can confirm that Assistant Head Coach Pablo Sanz, Head of Performance Oscar Caro, Head Analyst Juan Vicente Peinado, Fitness Coach Borja De Alba and Technical Coach Edu Rubio have also left with immediate effect,” the club stated.

West Ham's official statement also expressed gratitude towards Lopetegui and his staff for their efforts during their tenure. “The Board would like to thank Julen and his staff for their hard work during their time with the Hammers and wish them every success for the future,” the statement continued. Lopetegui had taken over as West Ham manager in May, signing an initial two-year deal to replace David Moyes.

Lopetegui's tenure was marked by disappointing results, including an early exit from the EFL Cup at the hands of Liverpool. In the Premier League, West Ham has secured just six wins this season. With Lopetegui's departure, speculation surrounding his replacement has begun. Former Chelsea and Brighton boss Graham Potter is heavily linked with the role and is expected to be announced as the club's new manager.

West Ham's next Premier League match is scheduled for Tuesday, the 14th, as they host ninth-placed Fulham at home. Before that, the Hammers will face Aston Villa in the third round of the FA Cup this Friday, the 10th.