West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui is facing increasing uncertainty about his position at the London Stadium despite a slight upturn in form, with two wins in the club’s last four Premier League matches. Reports suggest that the Spaniard’s tenure is nearing its conclusion, as the club’s hierarchy is allegedly “buying time” before appointing a new manager.
One potential candidate to replace Lopetegui is former Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter. However, deciding on the next manager appears to be causing divisions within the club’s leadership. According to reports, West Ham’s six board members each have differing opinions on who should take over if Lopetegui is dismissed.
Hammers News, citing journalist Graeme Bailey, revealed that Potter has expressed willingness to step in on a short-term deal until the end of the season “if and when” Lopetegui departs. Bailey described Potter as a “world-class” option, stating that the 48-year-old sees West Ham as a fitting opportunity to return to management after an extended absence.
If Potter accepts the role, it would mark his return to the dugout nearly two years after leaving Chelsea. Such an appointment could prove beneficial for vice-chairman Karren Brady, but it remains to be seen how other board members—who reportedly have different preferences—will respond to their favored candidates being overlooked.
For now, Lopetegui remains in charge, but the uncertainty around his future continues to loom large over the London Stadium.