January 9, 2025
Graham Potter speaks to the media on this morning as West Ham’s new manager. He has signed an initial six-month deal that can be extended for two more years based on performance.
West Ham parted ways with Julen Lopetegui after eight months. They began talks with Potter earlier this week. Lopetegui continued to train the team on Tuesday and Wednesday. He canceled a team dinner on Tuesday as the club finalized arrangements with Potter.
West Ham officially announced Lopetegui’s departure. A statement read: “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 that several staff members have left the club. “The club can confirm that Assistant Head Coach Pablo Sanz, Head of Performance Oscar Caro, Head Analyst Juan Vicente Peinado, Fitness Coach Borja De Alba and Technical Coach Edu Rubio have also left with immediate effect.”
The board thanked Lopetegui and his team for their work and wished them success in the future. The process of appointing a replacement is underway. The club will be making no further comment at this time.”
The 58-year-old was appointed in May to replace David Moyes. Moyes left the club after his contract expired at the end of last season. Lopetegui’s job was at risk before last month’s match against Wolves. The Hammers then went on a four-match unbeaten streak.
However, they have lost their last two games heavily. They were defeated 5-0 at home by Liverpool and 4-1 at Manchester City. This has left the club in 14th place in the Premier League.
Ex-Chelsea and Brighton manager Potter has been out of work since April 2023. He is to take over West Ham after contract talks progressed on Tuesday. Potter signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with a break clause at the end of the season.
His performance will determine if he stays. His first match is likely to be tough against Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Friday night.
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