Opinion: Sullivan Must Avoid Risky West Ham Move After Manager’s Comments, Could Backfire

Julen Lopetegui was appointed as David Moyes’ successor after the Scotsman’s relatively successful tenure as West Ham United manager came to an end.

However, since Lopetegui took over, things haven’t gone entirely as planned, even though the team now sits in a more respectable 13th place in the Premier League table.

At first glance, this position might not seem like a poor showing.

However, considering the expectations for West Ham to challenge for European qualification at the start of the season, it’s clear that the club has fallen short of its ambitions.

Amid this underperformance, several potential replacements for Lopetegui have been rumored, including Matthias Jaissle.

The current Al-Ahli manager recently addressed the speculation linking him to the West Ham managerial role.

In an interview with GiveMeSport on December 27, Jaissle expressed his pride at being associated with such a high-profile position, indicating he might be open to a move to London if the opportunity arose.

“Being mentioned in relation to West Ham or any high-profile job is obviously flattering,” Jaissle said. “It makes me proud to be linked with top clubs.

But I don’t focus on rumors like this. I have an agent who deals with any opportunities, should they arise, and my full focus is on Al-Ahli.

This is the only job I can currently control and influence. I am committed to Al-Ahli and want to achieve something great here.”

Despite Jaissle’s positive response to the rumors, some believe West Ham’s co-owner, David Sullivan, should avoid appointing him as Lopetegui’s replacement.

While a managerial change might seem necessary to revive the Hammers’ season, Jaissle does not appear to be the right candidate for the role.

Jaissle achieved success with RB Salzburg, winning two league titles, but his move to Saudi Arabia has been less impressive.

Although he retained his position at Al-Ahli and brought in players like Ivan Toney during the summer, Jaissle remains relatively unproven.

Hiring him would represent a significant risk for West Ham.

While Lopetegui’s tenure has been far from spectacular, recent results indicate a slight improvement.

Although fans could reignite calls for his dismissal if performances dip again, appointing Jaissle would likely be a misstep.

For now, West Ham would be wise to explore more experienced and reliable options should they part ways with Lopetegui.