Decision on Lopetegui’s future made following Spurs defeat amid ‘Deep Concern’ at West Ham, says Jacob Steinberg.

According to a Guardian report on 21 October, despite West Ham’s 4-1 defeat to Tottenham adding to concerns about the season, Julen Lopetegui’s position remains secure for now.

The Hammers currently sit 15th in the Premier League, but the club’s hierarchy is reportedly eager to give the former Wolves manager more time.

He is trying to implement a new style while integrating 10 new summer signings.

West Ham’s struggles under Lopetegui were not what many expected, especially after a busy transfer window aimed at rejuvenating the squad left behind by David Moyes.

While Moyes’ tenure seemed to have run its course, his overall record, including the 2023 Europa Conference League win, made his departure a divisive issue among fans and pundits.

With Moyes’ pragmatic approach replaced and the squad bolstered by new signings from Tim Steidten’s transfer window, this season was meant to be a fresh start for West Ham, with a more dynamic style of play.

An encouraging 4-1 win over Ipswich Town before the international break, with the attacking players flourishing on 5 October, seemed to suggest a positive turning point.

However, that momentum hasn’t continued. The fact that players like Jarrod Bowen, Michail Antonio, and Mohammed Kudus—key figures in the win—were all part of Moyes’ squad may offer some insight into the team’s struggles.

Kudus scored against Tottenham but may now face an extended ban following his red card, compounding Lopetegui’s problems.

Although there’s no clear backup plan, and with over £100 million spent on summer signings, it may be too early to cut ties with Lopetegui.

Still, he will need to show signs of progress soon.

Without improvement, the pressure on him could intensify, and the club may have no choice but to consider other options.