Opinion: Julen Lopetegui Could Be Sacked by West Ham Within 96 Hours Amid New Developments

The Hammers fans roared with excitement as Jarrod Bowen slotted the ball past Sam Johnstone, only for Matt Doherty to quickly respond, silencing the crowd and intensifying the pressure on Julen Lopetegui.

Fortunately for the under-fire Spaniard, Tomas Soucek delivered at the crucial moment, securing all three points against Gary O’Neil’s struggling side.

This victory came amid mounting scrutiny following West Ham’s dreadful start to the season, which included defeats to Tottenham, Nottingham Forest, Arsenal, and a particularly poor performance against Leicester City in recent weeks.

The focus has increasingly turned to Lopetegui, with fans directing their frustrations at both the head coach and owner David Sullivan.

Reports suggest that the manager’s position may be under threat, as highlighted by Sami Mokbel’s latest update.

West Ham United to sack Julen Lopetegui after Bournemouth clash?

Writing for the Daily Mail on 12 December, Mokbel revealed: “Graham Potter was the leading contender to replace West Ham head coach Julen Lopetegui this week if the London Stadium side had lost to Wolves.”

He continued, “Another bad result against Bournemouth on Monday night will see Lopetegui back under pressure, with Potter likely remaining a candidate if West Ham’s owners opt for a change.”

With the Hammers set to visit the Vitality Stadium on Monday, 16 December, Lopetegui faces a crucial test.

Although West Ham have remained unbeaten in their last five meetings with Bournemouth, their current form makes even a draw seem like a positive outcome.

However, with Lopetegui already under significant pressure to secure wins, anything less than victory could mark the end of his tenure in East London.