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Lopetegui’s Future in Doubt as West Ham Eye Elite Replacement: Allegri Linked to London Stadium

The pressure on Julen Lopetegui at West Ham United has reached boiling point, with reports suggesting the Spanish manager could be shown the door after just a few months in charge.

A crucial clash against his former side Wolves on Monday has been billed as Lopetegui’s final chance to salvage his position, with defeat likely sealing his fate.

After a summer of significant investment, bringing in ten new players, Lopetegui has struggled to deliver results. West Ham currently sit 14th in the Premier League, just six points clear of the relegation zone. The frustration among the fanbase and within the club itself has been palpable, with many believing the squad’s potential far exceeds their underwhelming performances.

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Reports from Italy suggest that West Ham’s board is already exploring potential replacements, with former Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri emerging as a key target. Allegri, who has been out of management since leaving Juve in 2022, is said to be intrigued by the opportunity to work abroad, which could give the Hammers an edge in the race for his signature.

The interest in Allegri is not without competition, however. Roma is reportedly keeping tabs on the Italian tactician as they plan for a managerial change next summer. Roma owner Dan Friedkin is rumored to be looking beyond Claudio Ranieri, whose current deal with the Italian club expires at the end of the season.

Despite the allure of Serie A, Allegri’s desire to gain experience outside Italy could tilt the scales in West Ham’s favor. If approached, he would bring a wealth of experience and tactical acumen, potentially addressing the frustrations voiced by some players who reportedly feel a more high-profile manager could propel the team into European contention.

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Another name linked to the potential managerial vacancy is Matthias Jaissle, currently in charge of Al-Ahli. Jaissle’s reputation as a forward-thinking and innovative coach has caught the attention of West Ham’s hierarchy. However, sources close to the German manager suggest he is entirely focused on his current role and has not entertained discussions about a move.

Graham Potter and former Porto boss Sergio Conceição have also been mentioned as options. While Potter remains a possibility, interest in Conceição seems to have cooled, leaving Allegri as the standout candidate in terms of profile and pedigree.

West Ham’s struggles under Lopetegui are reportedly causing deep divisions behind the scenes. Senior decision-makers at the club are believed to have already concluded that the Spaniard is not the right fit to lead the Hammers forward. The players, too, are said to be increasingly dejected, with some privately expressing their belief that the squad is capable of much more under a different coach.

Lopetegui’s tenure has been marked by inconsistency, with a lack of cohesion on the pitch undermining the club’s ambitions. Monday’s match against Wolves is now seen as a make-or-break moment, not just for Lopetegui but for West Ham’s season as a whole.

His successor

If Lopetegui is dismissed, the decision on his successor will be pivotal. Allegri’s track record of success in Italy and his proven ability to manage high-pressure environments make him an attractive candidate, but whether West Ham can act quickly enough to secure his services remains to be seen.

While managerial changes dominate the headlines, West Ham are also reportedly active in planning for the January transfer window. A loan move for Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo is said to be under consideration, with the player potentially keen on more regular playing time.

In addition, the Hammers are rumored to be interested in bringing Douglas Luiz back to the Premier League just months after his move to Juventus. However, competition for Luiz’s signature is fierce, with Manchester United and Fulham also in the mix.

For now, all eyes are on Lopetegui and West Ham’s performance in the last games.

West Ham’s supporters, long accustomed to rollercoaster seasons, will be hoping the board’s next move provides the stability and vision needed to capitalize on the talent within the squad and return to European contention. Monday’s showdown with Wolves might not just decide Lopetegui’s fate—it could define the trajectory of West Ham’s season.

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