West Ham United is reportedly deliberating over manager Julen Lopetegui’s future, with discussions underway regarding the potential appointment of Graham Potter as his successor.
Although club sources have denied that Lopetegui has been dismissed, they acknowledge the immense pressure on the 58-year-old, who narrowly avoided dismissal before last month’s home game against Wolves.
While a victory in that match spurred a four-game unbeaten streak—the team’s best run of the season—a devastating 5-0 loss to Liverpool followed by a 4-1 defeat at Manchester City has left the Hammers sitting 14th in the Premier League table, just seven points clear of the relegation zone.
Technical director Tim Steidten was recently photographed in conversation with former Chelsea and Brighton manager Graham Potter.
The image, reportedly taken recently but not independently verified, has circulated widely on social media.
Potter, who has been out of management since Chelsea dismissed him in April 2023, expressed his readiness to return to club football in September.
He had also been linked to potentially succeeding Gareth Southgate as England manager.
Lopetegui, appointed last summer to replace David Moyes, has struggled to improve both the team’s performance and playing style, issues that also plagued his predecessor.
Despite initial promise, his tenure has come under scrutiny after disappointing results.
In the meantime, Steidten is said to be working on transfer plans away from the club’s training ground, echoing tensions that surfaced between Moyes and the technical director towards the end of last season.
West Ham is actively seeking reinforcements, particularly a striker, following significant injuries to captain Jarrod Bowen, who sustained a broken foot, and Michail Antonio, injured in a car accident.
West Ham faces Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round on Friday, but it remains uncertain whether Lopetegui will be on the touchline for that match.