With pressure mounting on Julen Lopetegui following West Ham United’s 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, the Spaniard’s tenure at the London Stadium appears increasingly tenuous.
Lopetegui’s position at West Ham has been under intense scrutiny. The club invested heavily in the summer transfer window, raising expectations among fans and pundits alike.
However, after 10 games, the Hammers find themselves in 14th place, a far cry from their pre-season aspirations of challenging for European qualification.
In contrast, Nottingham Forest, predicted by many to be close to the relegation zone, has exceeded expectations, piling further pressure on Lopetegui.
Football journalist Fabrizio Romano provided insight into the situation in his recent Daily Briefing, writing:
“Another defeat yesterday against Nottingham Forest puts Julen Lopetegui on the brink at West Ham.”
According to Romano, the next two games—against Everton and Newcastle United—could be crucial for Lopetegui as he battles to retain his position.
The loss to Forest has laid bare the contrasting fortunes of the two clubs. While Forest has surprised with its dynamic performances, West Ham has struggled to gel despite considerable financial outlay.
Fans, already voicing their dissatisfaction, are growing restless as their side hovers precariously above the relegation zone.
West Ham’s board, it seems, is considering a bold change in the dugout. Romano reports that Terzic, who left Dortmund in the summer after a successful tenure, is seen as a promising option.
The German coach impressed during his spell at Dortmund, guiding the team to a Champions League final and building a reputation for his attacking football.
Now, West Ham could offer Terzic a swift return to management, with Romano noting:
“The Hammers could appoint former Borussia Dortmund manager Edin Terzic as the 58-year-old’s successor.”
The appointment of Lopetegui was seen as a conservative move last summer, especially following David Moyes’ departure. With a squad brimming with talent, many anticipated a younger, more progressive coach to build on Moyes’ foundation.
Lopetegui, who had a mixed spell at Wolves, arrived with a reputation for cautious, pragmatic football, a style that has not resonated with West Ham’s fanbase.
Meanwhile, clubs like Brighton took a chance by appointing the adventurous Fabian Hurzeler, a move that has since paid dividends.
Terzic, at 42, could represent the progressive choice that West Ham supporters have been craving.
Known for his high-energy 4-3-3 formation, he would likely bring the best out of attacking talents such as Mohammed Kudus, much as he did with Jadon Sancho at Dortmund.
His brand of fast-paced, possession-based football could provide a refreshing alternative to the cautious approach that has frustrated West Ham fans under Lopetegui.
West Ham’s ambition to move forward as a club aligns well with Terzic’s youthful, dynamic coaching style.
With time to salvage the season, the Hammers may have an opportunity to correct their summer misstep and bring in a manager capable of realising the potential of their talented squad.
It may have taken longer than hoped, but West Ham still has the chance to set itself on a path to success by bringing Terzic to the Premier League.