Former Premier League midfielder Jamie O’Hara has criticised West Ham United’s decision to replace David Moyes with Julen Lopetegui, describing the Spaniard as a “bang average” manager.
Moyes departed the club when his contract expired at the end of last season, with the Hammers opting for a fresh approach.
Sporting director Tim Steidten moved quickly to appoint Lopetegui, formerly of Wolves, and the new manager was heavily backed with several summer signings.
However, the change has yet to deliver results. West Ham sit 15th in the Premier League, having managed only two wins from their opening eight matches. A 4-1 thrashing by Tottenham in their most recent outing has increased the pressure on Lopetegui.
Speaking to Grosvenor Sport on X, O’Hara didn’t hold back in his criticism of the appointment.
“They’ve messed it up again royally. Lopetegui, bang average manager. Players are all over the place, defensively they are absolutely awful, gaps all over the pitch,” he said.
O’Hara questioned whether Lopetegui was an upgrade on Moyes, saying:
“And you’re telling me Lopetegui is better than David Moyes? Absolutely not.
“For me, West Ham have absolutely killed themselves. Serves them right, same old West Ham.”
With growing concerns about the club’s direction under Lopetegui, the Hammers now face a crucial fixture.
They are set to host Manchester United at the London Stadium on Sunday, hoping to turn their season around and ease the mounting pressure.