West Ham United have dismissed manager Julen Lopetegui after just half a year at the helm, with discussions underway to appoint Graham Potter as his replacement.
Lopetegui, 58, joined the Hammers in May following David Moyes’ departure but officially began his tenure on 1 July.
During his brief spell in charge, the team secured only six Premier League victories.
A crushing 4-1 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday marked the club’s ninth loss in 20 league matches this season, leaving West Ham 14th in the table, just seven points clear of the relegation zone.
The East London side has reportedly opened negotiations with former Chelsea and Brighton boss Graham Potter for a potential short-term managerial contract.
In a statement, the club explained: “The first half of the 2024/25 season has not aligned with the club’s ambitions, and the club has therefore taken action in line with its objectives.”
The statement also confirmed the departure of Lopetegui’s backroom staff, including assistant Pablo Sanz, head of performance Oscar Caro, head analyst Juan Vicente Peinado, fitness coach Borja De Alba, and technical coach Edu Rubio.
The board expressed gratitude for Lopetegui’s contributions:
“The board would like to thank Julen and his staff for their hard work during their time with the Hammers and wish them every success for the future.”
The search for a new manager is already underway, with Potter emerging as a strong contender to lead the team forward.
