Steinberg criticizes ‘unimaginative’ Sullivan for Lopetegui’s appointment

Pressure is mounting on Julen Lopetegui after West Ham’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Chelsea, adding to concerns about the team’s performance.

The Hammers were fortunate not to suffer an even heavier loss, as they currently lead the Premier League in shots conceded.

After parting ways with David Moyes, the club faced warnings to be cautious about their next steps.

Fans desired a more entertaining and attacking style of play, especially in light of other teams like Spurs, Brighton, and Villa successfully implementing such tactics.

However, there has been little evidence of improvement under Lopetegui.

Many supporters feel frustrated by the absence of a clear playing style or identity, evoking memories of the bleak period under Manuel Pellegrini.

West Ham fans had grown tired of Moyes’ approach, prompting a need for change.

Yet, when Lopetegui was announced as a candidate, excitement among the fanbase was muted, particularly after the club’s interest in more dynamic options like Ruben Amorim.

Although it is early in his tenure, criticism of Lopetegui is already surfacing. Journalist Jacob Steinberg has expressed disappointment with the club’s leadership, particularly David Sullivan, for failing to make a bold appointment.

He argues that West Ham needed to move away from negativity and take risks, similar to teams like Brighton and Bournemouth, rather than opting for a conservative choice.

While West Ham’s performances have been lackluster this season, it’s essential to recognize that Lopetegui inherited a squad that required significant rebuilding after Moyes’ management.

Steinberg’s criticism might seem hasty, as the team needs time to adapt.

This season marks the first time in 129 years that West Ham has lost their first three home games, with the fixtures not favoring them against strong opponents like Villa, Manchester City, and Chelsea.

Given the current scrutiny from the media, Lopetegui must quickly find a way to motivate his squad.

Fans expressed their dissatisfaction during the Chelsea match, leaving the stadium en masse with 20 minutes remaining.

Sullivan has historically been slow to dismiss managers, a strategy that has its drawbacks, as seen in the case of Avram Grant.

However, continued poor performances could pressure him to consider a change sooner than expected.

Lopetegui appears to be struggling to re-establish himself in management after a year away from the game.

If he cannot revitalize the team soon, it could lead to another extended period of underperformance for West Ham.