West Ham United’s appointment of Julen Lopetegui has brought a renewed sense of optimism to the club, but former Arsenal star and now pundit, Paul Merson, believes the new manager faces a serious issue.
Lopetegui officially took charge on July 1st, succeeding David Moyes, yet Merson claims the Spaniard is grappling with a significant challenge as he tries to steer the Hammers into a new era.
Ahead of tomorrow’s crucial encounter with Chelsea at the London Stadium, Merson predicted a 1-1 draw in his latest column.
It’s a result that would be acceptable to some fans, but others will no doubt be expecting more, particularly after the club’s summer spending spree, which saw nine new players join the ranks.
Supporters are eager for signs of progress, and while Lopetegui has bolstered the squad, that progression may not come easily, or indeed quickly.
Building a squad, especially in the Premier League, is often a slow and arduous process. Transforming a club does not happen overnight, and while the fans’ expectations may be high, Lopetegui will need time.
Patience, both from the supporters and the board, will be crucial if West Ham are to develop into a side capable of regularly competing at the top end of the table.
However, despite the need for patience, Merson has pinpointed a key area where Lopetegui might already be falling short.
Merson highlights the issue at West Ham
In his Sportskeeda column, Merson didn’t hold back in his assessment of West Ham’s early struggles this season.
“The problem with West Ham is that they’re still figuring out their best XI after making some important signings in the summer,” he wrote.
It’s a valid concern, as Lopetegui’s side has made a sluggish start to the campaign. But context is important.
The Hammers have endured a difficult opening set of fixtures, including two home matches against last season’s top four and a pair of tough London derbies on the road.
These are hardly ideal conditions for a new manager trying to implement his ideas and integrate new players.
With the Chelsea clash looming, the pressure is on Lopetegui to deliver a result. His team selections so far have raised eyebrows among sections of the fanbase, with some criticising what they see as overly cautious or erratic line-ups.
Merson’s suggestion that Lopetegui doesn’t yet know his best XI will resonate with those who feel the manager has been too slow in trusting his new recruits.
A misreading of Lopetegui’s strategy?
That said, it’s worth considering whether Merson’s critique is entirely fair. Lopetegui has rotated his squad extensively in the opening weeks, giving most of last season’s regulars a chance to stake their claim.
This approach may seem indecisive, but it could also be interpreted as pragmatic. The manager cannot simply abandon the players who helped West Ham stay in the top flight last season.
Dropping them wholesale in favour of the summer signings would have risked creating a rift in the dressing room.
However, now that the initial settling-in period has passed, it’s likely we will see Lopetegui take a more definitive approach. Tomorrow’s game against Chelsea could well be the moment when he begins to field what he believes is his strongest side.
The manager’s selections will be scrutinised closely, and there is a growing feeling among the fans that it’s time for the new signings to take centre stage.
Merson’s assertion that Lopetegui doesn’t know his best XI seems at odds with the situation. The manager likely has a very clear idea of his preferred line-up, but has simply been managing the transition with care.
Now, though, the time has come for that caution to be set aside. A settled team is essential if West Ham are to build momentum and start climbing the table.
Lopetegui’s likely strongest XI
On paper, most supporters would agree on what West Ham’s strongest line-up looks like. Alphonse Areola has established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper, while Emerson Palmieri and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are expected to feature in the full-back positions.
In central defence, Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo seem set to form a solid partnership.
In midfield, a double pivot of Edson Alvarez and Guido Rodriguez should provide the necessary protection, with Lucas Paqueta deployed in a more advanced role.
For games against lower opposition at home, Carlos Soler could slot into the midfield alongside Paqueta, adding creativity and flair.
The front three should see Crysencio Summerville on the left, Mohammed Kudus on the right, and Jarrod Bowen operating centrally. It’s a potent combination, and one that the fans are keen to see more of.
Ultimately, Merson’s concerns may be premature. Lopetegui is a manager with a wealth of experience and a clear vision for how he wants his team to play.
The pieces of the puzzle are falling into place, and while the process may not be instantaneous, there is every reason to believe that the Hammers are heading in the right direction.