REPORT: ‘Player type I adore’: Julen Lopetegui praises £35m West Ham star for reaching the peak of his career

Julen Lopetegui is preparing for his debut season at London Stadium, taking over from David Moyes following the latter’s successful tenure with West Ham United.

The club aims to challenge for European qualification and potentially contend for trophies in the upcoming season, boasting a roster of standout players that Lopetegui plans to integrate into his squad.

Lucas Paqueta has been pivotal during his time in London, while Jarrod Bowen’s impressive form earned him a spot in England’s World Cup squad. Mohammed Kudus is also emerging as a player to watch.

However, Lopetegui faced an early setback with Edson Alvarez sustaining an injury during Copa America duty, jeopardizing his availability for the start of the season. Alvarez, who joined West Ham for £35 million last summer, has shown promise and Lopetegui emphasized his importance to the team.

In an interview with Nigel Rio Coker on Morning Footy, Lopetegui expressed his admiration for Alvarez, describing him as a balanced player with strong technical and physical abilities. Despite the setback, Lopetegui believes Alvarez will play a crucial role once he returns.

This season carries significant weight for both Lopetegui and West Ham, as skepticism surrounded Lopetegui’s appointment towards the end of the previous campaign. Despite Moyes’ enduring support from the media, West Ham’s season was deemed ordinary, partly due to the high standards set by Moyes himself.

Following Manuel Pellegrini’s unsuccessful tenure after Moyes’ initial stint, concerns linger regarding Lopetegui’s adaptation to the Premier League. Nevertheless, Lopetegui’s successful track record, including a stint at Wolves, suggests he can thrive at West Ham.

If Lopetegui can harness the potential of players like Alvarez, Paqueta, Kudus, and Bowen, West Ham could enjoy a prosperous season ahead.