West Ham United find themselves at a pivotal crossroads as they prepare to face Premier League leaders Liverpool this Sunday. Manager Julen Lopetegui is under mounting pressure after overseeing what has been described as a chaotic season punctuated by serious tactical missteps and disappointing results.
Despite significant investment during the summer transfer window, the Hammers have managed only six wins from their first eighteen matches, placing them perilously close to the relegation zone. Such form has ignited speculation about Lopetegui's future, with reports linking former Chelsea boss Graham Potter to the managerial role as his potential successor.
According to ExWHUemployee, the board is reportedly considering Potter should Lopetegui's tenure falter, especially if West Ham suffers another heavy defeat to Liverpool, who have been performing dominantly lately. This speculation has been fueled by the team's poor results, and underwhelming performances against top-tier opponents. Just recently, they were trounced 5-0 at home by Liverpool, and the match exposed the apparent weaknesses within the squad and management.
Lopetegui faces the Liverpool match with notable absences; both Tomas Soucek and Guido Rodriguez are suspended. The loss of both midfielders compounds the issues following injuries to other players. When asked if facing Liverpool was frightening, Lopetegui maintained his team's confidence, stating, “Are we afraid? No. We have big respect for all teams, but we have the same respect for Southampton and for Liverpool.”
Despite this bravado, the Hammers have suffered humiliations this season, with journalist Jacob Steinberg from The Guardian asserting, "How many humiliations in half a season does one manager get away with? Beyond acceptable, even if Liverpool are brilliant. Barely competing." It seems the manager is teetering on the edge as discontent grows among the fans and pundits alike, particularly following the abysmal defensive displays against Liverpool.
The latest performance against Arne Slot’s Liverpool raised questions about Lopetegui's tactical choices, particularly the decision to use Emerson as a left wing-back, which backfired significantly. During this match, West Ham's defense was described as “shambolic,” allowing Liverpool to cruise to victory with ease. The Hammers were dominated from the outset, trailing 3-0 at halftime. The match reflected glaring structural failures, leading to the criticism of Lopetegui's managerial style, which has been labeled as ineffective by various commentators.
West Ham’s season has seen them concede heavy defeats, including 5-1 losses to Arsenal and humiliations at home against Chelsea. Observers have noted the team has repeatedly failed to show character or resilience, making for grim viewing at the London Stadium this season.
Should Lopetegui be dismissed, any potential replacement would likely be tasked with not only stabilizing the squad but also revitalizing the club's fortunes. Potter, who previously enjoyed success with Brighton, is considered to have the capability to update West Ham's strategy and bring the team back up to competitive standards.
Meanwhile, as the Hammers gear up for their latest challenge, they face Liverpool—a team sitting comfortably atop the Premier League, and appearing formidable after their recent performances. Fifteen goal contributions from players like Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo make them the team to beat. West Ham's lack of form and confidence make this upcoming clash appear like David versus Goliath.
Lopetegui’s strategy had involved shifting to a back five, intended to provide defensive stability against potent attackers. Unfortunately for him, the execution has consistently misfired, resulting in more openings for opponents. Liverpool have regularly exploited the Hammers’ defensive frailties, and with the Reds crafting attacking opportunities effortlessly, West Ham’s backline will be severely tested once again.
Alphonse Areola was the standout performer for West Ham during the Liverpool game, effectively serving as the last line of defense against relentless attacking waves. His efforts, though commendable, highlighted the need for more comprehensive team play and tactical effectiveness.
While Lopetegui can tout recent unbeaten runs as a sign of potential, these outcomes came against teams struggling for form themselves. The reality remains harsh—facing the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal reveals West Ham’s inability to compete. The intense scrutiny from fans and the media places Lopetegui under immense stress, as he must now find solutions quickly or risk being the next managerial casualty.
Despite the turmoil, Lopetegui has remained defiant, expressing optimism about the match against Liverpool and urging his players to step up. He commented, “We are happy to have these kinds of matches at home,” attempting to instill belief among his ranks. Yet, such sentiments may ring hollow after another poor performance.
With pressure mounting and results desperately needed, West Ham United's clash with Liverpool could prove decisive for both the club's immediate fortunes and Lopetegui’s tenure as manager. If they do not find way to pull themselves out of this slump, the visit of the league leaders may descend from challenging to disastrous.
Only time will tell if this updated playing style can deliver the necessary improvements, but as the clock ticks down to match day, the stakes could not be higher for West Ham United.