West Ham have held “productive talks” with former Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui about replacing David Moyes, according to The Guardian.
The newspaper claims that the Spaniard made a “strong impression” during his interview, with chairman David Sullivan said to be favouring his appointment.
Supporters on X are, however, less than enthusiastic about hiring Lopetegui, with many feeling he isn’t an upgrade on Moyes:
Sideways step
— Talkin West Ham (@TalkinWestHam) April 24, 2024
Rather keep Moyes
— Anna Caswell-Thorp ⚒️ (@AUCasanna) April 24, 2024
Will be the worst appointment West Ham will make. Despite his age, he's unproven in building squads. Longest spell was with Sevilla from 2019-2022 and he was sacked.
Pass!
— Adam L. (@A_A_L_1986) April 24, 2024
Might as well keep Moyes and sack Tim Steidten if Sullivan isn’t going to listen to him
— Matt Davey⚒ (@Daveyboymarra) April 24, 2024
The cheapest option that will still split the fan base
— Maggs ⚒🫧 (@maggs10) April 24, 2024
Would welcome a change but replacing our most successful manager in years with him is not what I want
— Ian Ford (@SDaws84) April 24, 2024
There is resistance to appointing Lopetegui among other board members
While Sullivan is a fan of the 57-year-old due to his previous Premier League experience, other key decision-makers at the Hammers are less convinced.
Some have reportedly questioned Lopetegui’s age and whether he is the right fit to get the most out of West Ham’s current squad.
West Ham have a shortlist of potential candidates
Despiting holding discussions with Lopetegui, the Irons have not ended their search for Moyes’ successor. They have also spoken to Sporting Lisbon head coach Ruben Amorim, although the 39-year-old is not thought to be keen on taking the reins at the London Stadium.
Other names on the London club’s shortlist include Lille manager Paulo Fonseca and former Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick. The Guardian claim that Fulham’s Marco Silva, ex-Chelsea head coach Graham Potter and former Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper could also come under consideration.
