West Ham United’s summer signing Guido Rodriguez has revealed that manager Julen Lopetegui played a crucial role in his decision to join the club.
The midfielder recently spoke to Marca about his free transfer to West Ham and how an old rivalry with Lopetegui didn’t deter him from making the move.
Rodriguez is one of several new additions to West Ham this summer, as the club has invested heavily to strengthen and reshape Lopetegui’s squad.
He arrived on a free transfer after his contract with Real Betis expired, adding depth to a midfield that already features strong competition.
Among his competitors for a spot in the midfield is Edson Alvarez, a familiar face from Rodriguez’s time in Mexico, where they played together at Club America.
Alvarez’s presence at West Ham was seen as influential in convincing Rodriguez to join the team, but Rodriguez clarified that it was actually Lopetegui who was instrumental in making the transfer happen, despite their past rivalry in Seville.
“I spoke with Julen Lopetegui and that was key. He gave me his confidence, and I wanted to come. We can have a good season. I’m sure,” Rodriguez stated.
“I am happy to be with him now, although we are still getting to know each other. He is still explaining what he wants from me on the field,” he added.
Reflecting on his previous view of Lopetegui, Rodriguez said, “Before, I saw Julen as someone passionate about football.
It’s a plus for him. We had to be rivals, and now it’s nice to get together and share goals.”
