West Ham United’s January Reckoning: Time for Lopetegui and Steidten to Act
West Ham United’s dismal start to the season has heaped pressure on Julen Lopetegui and Tim Steidten. The duo, who arrived at the London Stadium in the summer and 12 months prior, respectively, have failed to impress, and their relationship is reportedly strained.
The Hammers’ regression this season is nothing short of remarkable, considering the influx of top-class players during the summer transfer window. Lopetegui’s position as head coach is under intense scrutiny, while Steidten’s job is also said to be on the line.
As the January transfer window approaches, Lopetegui and Steidten face a daunting task. The duo must adopt a ruthless approach to players who are pushing for an exit. Edson Alvarez, Guido Rodriguez, and Niclas Fullkrug are reportedly seeking a move away from the London Stadium.
Alvarez’s lack of discipline has been a liability, while Fullkrug and Rodriguez have struggled to adapt to the Premier League. The trio’s departure could be a blessing in disguise for West Ham, allowing the club to raise in excess of £50 million and reinvest in a proper striker with explosive pace and a powerful, energetic, and athletic central midfielder.
The Hammers’ squad remains in desperate need of attention, despite the significant overhaul in the summer. David Sullivan’s patience with Steidten is wearing thin, while Lopetegui’s future hangs in the balance.
If Alvarez, Rodriguez, and Fullkrug do depart in January or next summer, it may provide Lopetegui and Steidten with an opportunity to rectify their previous transfer market errors. The duo must seize this chance to revamp the squad and restore West Ham’s fortunes.
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