Major Managerial Twist Could Prompt Sullivan to Reconsider Sacking Decision

West Ham’s ownership is once again backing Julen Lopetegui, despite growing discontent among fans calling for the Spaniard’s dismissal.

 

The Hammers suffered a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Liverpool in their latest setback during an underwhelming season.

 

This result came on the heels of a four-match unbeaten run, which owed more to their opponents’ wastefulness and fortunate VAR decisions than any marked improvement in performances.

 

Pressure on Lopetegui has been mounting since before the November international break.

Disastrous defeats to Arsenal and Leicester prompted the club’s traveling supporters to turn against the manager.

 

However, the West Ham hierarchy gave Lopetegui one final opportunity to retain his position.

 

While the unbeaten streak and Liverpool’s formidable quality appear to have bought him additional time, the club’s leadership has made it clear that Lopetegui remains under immense pressure to deliver better results.

 

The ownership remains optimistic about improving fortunes in 2025, but this sentiment is not shared by the majority of supporters.

 

Lopetegui’s position looks precarious as West Ham heads into a challenging run of fixtures.

 

Meanwhile, reports suggest Daniel Levy is pressuring David Sullivan, with Tottenham potentially eyeing Graham Potter as a replacement for Ange Postecoglou.

 

This development could leave West Ham scrambling for alternatives if they decide to part ways with Lopetegui.

West Ham Under Pressure to Sack Lopetegui

 

Former Chelsea manager Graham Potter has been on standby as a possible interim replacement for Lopetegui.

 

However, Tottenham’s interest in Potter threatens to disrupt West Ham’s plans.

 

Other managers recently linked to the Hammers include Edin Terzic, Roger Schmidt, and Sergio Conceição.

 

In a twist that complicates matters, Paulo Fonseca, once considered a prime candidate for the West Ham job, has become available after being fired by AC Milan.

 

Earlier in the season, Tim Steidten, West Ham’s technical director, reportedly favored Ruben Amorim, Paulo Fonseca, Conceição, or Fabian Hürzeler over Lopetegui.

 

Fonseca had been particularly appealing to fans, given his track record of promoting academy talent.

 

Ironically, Fonseca benefitted earlier this year when Milan withdrew their contract offer to Lopetegui, allowing him to take over at the Serie A club.

 

However, Fonseca’s tenure at Milan proved short-lived, and the Italian club announced his dismissal.

 

Double Manager Twist and Implications for West Ham

 

Milan’s official statement confirmed Fonseca’s exit, expressing gratitude for his professionalism and wishing him well.

 

This development presents Sullivan with a significant decision.

 

While Fonseca is now available, Milan is reportedly moving quickly to secure Sergio Conceição as his replacement.

 

Conceição, previously linked to West Ham, had shown interest in joining the club but now seems poised to take over at Milan.

 

West Ham’s indecision over Lopetegui has left the door open for Milan to swoop in on Conceição.

 

Reports suggest the negotiations between Milan and Conceição are advancing rapidly, putting additional pressure on Sullivan to act decisively.

 

If West Ham hesitates further, they risk losing out on both Conceição and Fonseca.

 

Urgency for West Ham

 

Should the Hammers fail to secure Conceição, Fonseca remains a viable option.

 

However, it is uncertain whether fans would be as enthusiastic about his appointment now, given his disappointing spell at Milan.

 

What is clear is that West Ham’s managerial situation has reached a critical juncture.

 

With tough fixtures ahead and growing unrest among supporters, the club must decide quickly whether to back Lopetegui further or turn to a new candidate before the best options are no longer available.

 

The developments in Italy, coupled with Tottenham’s potential move for Potter, have created a high-stakes scenario for Sullivan and the West Ham hierarchy.

 

If they decide to make a change, they must act swiftly to secure their preferred choice.

 

Time is running out, and the ramifications of their decision will shape the club’s trajectory for the remainder ofthe season and beyond.