Exclusive: West Ham target 11-time trophy-winning manager as doubts grow over Lopetegui’s future

West Ham’s disappointing start to the season has cast doubt on Julen Lopetegui’s future, just a few months into his two-year deal at London Stadium.

Despite being expected to push for European qualification, West Ham currently sits in 15th place with only two wins from eight Premier League games.

Sources indicate that former Wolves, Real Madrid, and Spain manager Lopetegui still has the support of West Ham co-owner David Sullivan.

Sullivan, instrumental in Lopetegui’s hiring over David Moyes, is not yet willing to admit that bringing the 58-year-old back to English football was an error.

However, discussions within the club are underway to explore potential replacements should Lopetegui struggle to turn the season around.

Among the names being considered is former Porto manager Sergio Conceicao. Like Lopetegui, Conceicao gained recognition as an emerging coaching talent during his time at Porto.

Over seven years at Estadio do Dragao, he became a modern club icon, securing three Primeira Liga titles and winning Portugal’s Coach of the Year award three times.

Earlier, West Ham explored appointing Ruben Amorim from Sporting Lisbon before ultimately choosing Lopetegui.

Now, Conceicao, who competed with Amorim for titles in Portugal, has emerged as a top candidate.

However, securing his services may be challenging as he is reportedly being considered by several European clubs.

Conceicao boasts an impressive record, having won 11 trophies in seven years with Porto.

Known for his competitive and often intense personality, he draws comparisons to former Porto coach Jose Mourinho.

This fierce approach contributed to his successes but occasionally led to friction with players and staff.

During his final months at Porto, critics pointed out that Conceicao’s teams performed better against strong opponents than weaker ones.

If he were to join West Ham, his style—emphasizing high pressing and quick transitions—could suit the squad well.

With West Ham often facing stronger opponents in the Premier League, his tactics may complement the club’s current position as a counter-attacking team rather than one that controls possession.

Fabio Capello, the former manager of England, AC Milan, and Real Madrid, praised Conceicao’s tactical strengths, especially his ability to draw peak performance from both seasoned and young players.

In a recent interview, Capello remarked, “As a coach, he’s shown great tactical and attacking precision at Porto.

His teams are solid and balanced, as seen in the Champions League. Italian teams often struggled against Porto.”

Capello also highlighted Conceicao’s adaptability and winning mindset, emphasizing his capacity to work with both established stars and emerging talents, a philosophy deeply ingrained in Porto’s history of success.

For Lopetegui, Sunday’s game against Manchester United presents a critical opportunity to alleviate the mounting pressure and restore confidence in his leadership.

A win could shift the trajectory of his tenure, easing speculation about a managerial change.