Incoming West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui and director of football Tim Steidten face a crucial and busy summer as they prepare to revamp the squad ahead of the 2024/25 season. The duo must work diligently to ensure the Hammers can be competitive on all fronts next season.
Lopetegui, who is set to take the reins following a disappointing season under David Moyes, reportedly has his first signing lined up—Sevilla striker Youssef En-Nesyri. However, the 57-year-old Spaniard and his German counterpart will need to secure several more additions, as a significant player exodus is anticipated at the London Stadium this summer.
David Moyes has struggled in the latter part of the season, with the team’s performances often described as lacklustre. The incoming manager, Lopetegui, is expected to bring a much-needed change in style and efficiency. With Steidten’s support, the future could be promising for West Ham.
What Julen Lopetegui Has Told Tim Steidten
The challenge for Lopetegui and Steidten is substantial, given the need for numerous new signings and the departure of several current players. The upcoming season, devoid of European football, presents a golden opportunity for Lopetegui to demonstrate his managerial prowess and build a robust squad.
The squad Moyes leaves behind is not only underperforming but also aging. If Lucas Paqueta departs, only six first-team players will be under the age of 29—a glaring issue given the considerable financial investment in recent years.
Reports suggest that Lopetegui aims to bring in at least six new signings this summer. Importantly, he is aware of the magnitude of the task and the urgency required. According to Claret and Hugh, Lopetegui has communicated his plans to Steidten and the club’s owners, emphasizing the need to complete transfer business promptly.
Early Transfer Activity
The report states, “Lopetegui is believed to have had long and detailed conversations with West Ham’s director of football and is eager to begin pre-season with as many new players in place as possible.”
“Lopetegui’s preparation ahead of starting work at Rush Green has been extremely thorough, and the Spaniard has no desire to wait until the end of the transfer window to complete his squad assembly.”
“It is understood that the club has already targeted and approached many of the players they wish to sign and are becoming increasingly confident in getting deals over the line early.”
The proactive approach is a refreshing change from Moyes’s often sluggish transfer dealings. Lopetegui’s insistence on early transfers means the team can integrate new players swiftly and effectively during pre-season.
A New Dawn for West Ham
For West Ham to start the new season strongly, it is crucial that most of their transfer business is concluded well before the campaign begins. Early signings allow the team to gel during pre-season, ensuring they hit the ground running.
Claret and Hugh’s claims that Lopetegui and Steidten are already aligning their transfer targets and approaches is encouraging news for West Ham supporters. This preparation suggests a more strategic and efficient transfer process, positioning the club to avoid the pitfalls of previous seasons.
The upcoming summer transfer window will be pivotal for West Ham United. With Julen Lopetegui’s ambitious plans and Tim Steidten’s support, the club is poised for significant changes. The swift and strategic approach to transfers could herald a new era of success and stability at the London Stadium. Fans will be eager to see the new-look squad and hope for a return to competitive form under the new management.