Merson hints at Lopetegui sacking pressure in West Ham vs Ipswich prediction
Paul Merson warns Julen Lopetegui will face "immense pressure" if West Ham United fail to beat Ipswich Town on Saturday (5 October).
In an interview with Sportskeeda (3 October), Paul Merson cautioned West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui, warning that clubs often panic and dismiss struggling managers during international breaks.
Merson suggested that West Ham fans may soon lose patience with the Spaniard.
Despite predicting a 3-1 victory for West Ham in their upcoming match against Ipswich on 5 October, Merson acknowledged that Ipswich could capitalize on West Ham’s poor form.
He explained, “I’d be surprised if West Ham lose this game, to be honest – I have a feeling they’ll step up and secure a much-needed win.
If you’re Ipswich, this is the best time to face West Ham. However, there’s still a noticeable gap in quality between the teams.”
He continued, “If West Ham fail to win, Lopetegui will face enormous pressure.
International breaks often see club owners panic, leading to multiple managerial changes.
Failing to beat a newly-promoted Ipswich could even prompt fans to turn against the manager.”
Lopetegui’s job could be in jeopardy if West Ham loses to Ipswich.
Although only six games into the Premier League season, West Ham has been underwhelming, registering just one win and five points.
Despite spending over £130 million on new signings in the summer transfer window, many of the same weaknesses that existed under former manager David Moyes have resurfaced.
Lopetegui has been reluctant to heavily rely on his new signings, with Guido Rodriguez and Max Kilman being the only players to start every match.
However, West Ham fans are already demanding significant changes.
Facing a newly-promoted Ipswich team still looking for their first win of the season, Lopetegui needs to make bold decisions in his team selection to ensure nothing less than a victory on 5 October.
If West Ham fails to win or are held to a draw at the London Stadium, Lopetegui’s tenure could be at risk, as the club’s hierarchy might seek a new manager to maximize their substantial investment.
In other West Ham news, one player expressed being “ashamed” after a disappointing performance in the recent draw against Brentford.
