“He has to”: Major Hammers News Exclusive on Lopetegui’s Future from West Ham’s Top Spokesperson

The day has come for West Ham to host Manchester United in the Premier League—a game being called ‘El Sackico’ due to the mounting pressure on both Julen Lopetegui and Erik ten Hag, the managers of West Ham and Man United, respectively.

The week has been rife with rumors and speculation about West Ham and their coach Lopetegui.

Following their recent 4-1 loss to Spurs, fans, pundits, and the media have weighed in on Lopetegui’s future, sparking a heated debate.

Lopetegui has appealed to the West Ham owners to reserve judgment until May, following a substantial rebuild of the squad over the summer.

In response, the West Ham hierarchy issued a public show of support through board representative Sean Whetstone.

Yet, this backing was quickly overshadowed by reports from Germany, where a journalist linked to sporting director Tim Steidten claimed that Edin Terzic is on standby as a potential replacement if Lopetegui were to be dismissed.

Meanwhile, reports from England have painted a picture of turmoil, with some calling West Ham a “circus.”

Speculation has even suggested unrest in the dressing room, claiming that players are “unconvinced” by Lopetegui’s leadership.

On top of this, another top manager was linked with the West Ham job, and the unemployed Graham Potter remains a rumored shadow looming over the role.

Even Steidten has faced criticism from a journalist reportedly close to West Ham’s owners.

One of the most significant developments came recently when Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg—who is said to have connections with Steidten—reported that Lopetegui has three games to secure his position.

This, coupled with the suspension of star player Mohammed Kudus, has created an atmosphere far from ideal as the team prepares for such a pivotal clash against Manchester United.

In search of clarity, Hammers News reached out to a high-level source within West Ham’s ownership.

This senior spokesman addressed claims regarding Lopetegui’s position, the alleged unrest, and the supposed three-game ultimatum.

The response was unwavering: West Ham’s leadership stands firmly behind their head coach.

“We are right behind the manager,” the spokesman confirmed to Hammers News, adding, “He has to use his vast experience in the game to get better results.” West Ham has stressed that they won’t be making impulsive decisions.

Rather than placing an immediate ultimatum, the team’s progress will be more accurately assessed closer to the new year.

There’s no sugar-coating the team’s current struggles, as West Ham finds itself just above the relegation zone, holding onto 16th place with only a small buffer from the bottom four.

However, with a 2-0 victory over Manchester United, they could move as high as 13th in the table—a much-needed boost that could create momentum.

While a loss against United won’t necessarily end Lopetegui’s tenure, it could intensify the pressure on Ten Hag.

West Ham has an opportunity to capitalize on Manchester United’s instability to kick-start the Lopetegui era and climb the standings.