West Ham United have approached Graham Potter to take over as their new manager, signaling the imminent departure of Julen Lopetegui. Discussions between Potter and the club’s majority shareholder have taken place, with the former Brighton and Chelsea manager reportedly considering the offer. Although Lopetegui remains in his role for now, his tenure appears to be nearing its end after a series of disappointing performances, including heavy defeats against Liverpool and Manchester City.
Lopetegui, who joined West Ham in the summer to replace David Moyes, has been under pressure throughout the season. Despite being given a temporary reprieve last month, the team’s defensive struggles and inconsistent form have left the club in 14th place in the league, just seven points above the relegation zone. The upcoming FA Cup match against Aston Villa and crucial league fixtures against Fulham and Crystal Palace could mark the final chapter of Lopetegui’s time at the club.
Potter, who has been without a managerial role since leaving Chelsea in April 2023, has emerged as the leading candidate for the position. While no agreement has been finalized, it is understood that the job is his if he chooses to accept it. Potter’s potential appointment follows months of internal turmoil at West Ham, including a strained relationship between Lopetegui and technical director Tim Steidten. Reports suggest Steidten has been staying away from the training ground, with conflicting accounts attributing his absence either to Lopetegui’s request or his focus on the January transfer window.
The breakdown in communication between Lopetegui and Steidten reflects broader challenges at the club. Steidten, who was hired in 2023, has faced criticism for his recruitment decisions and perceived lack of familiarity with English football. Despite these concerns, he remains actively involved in transfer activities, with the club targeting reinforcements in attack and midfield. Potential loan moves for Brighton’s Evan Ferguson and Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka are under consideration, while Wolves striker Hwang Hee-chan and Manchester City youngster James McAtee have also been linked.
The team’s struggles have been exacerbated by injuries to key players, including Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen, the latter sidelined for two months with a broken foot. Defensive vulnerabilities have further undermined Lopetegui’s position, despite the team creating opportunities in recent matches. With limited funds available, the board is expected to play a more prominent role in securing transfers during the January window.
West Ham’s search for a new manager has seen other candidates considered, including Sérgio Conceição and Edin Terzic, though neither appears likely to take the role. Concerns about language barriers have also made a move for Max Allegri improbable. Against this backdrop, Potter’s track record of building competitive teams and his availability make him an attractive option for the club.
As West Ham navigate this period of uncertainty, the focus remains on stabilizing the team and addressing weaknesses both on and off the pitch. The next few weeks will be pivotal in determining the club’s direction for the remainder of the season.
