Julen Lopetegui to Take Charge as West Ham Head Coach

Former Spain and Real Madrid manager, Julen Lopetegui, has reportedly agreed to a deal with West Ham United, and is set to become their new head coach at the conclusion of this season. Lopetegui, who oversaw a major portion of the previous season for Wolverhampton Wanderers before exiting the club in August 2023, is anticipated to succeed David Moyes.

Moyes, whose contract is expected to expire this coming summer, will be leaving the club after a successful stint culminating in a UEFA Europa Conference League victory last season—this ended West Ham's 43-year trophy drought. While the club was in contention for a third consecutive European qualification, their declining form has made this expectation increasingly less likely.

Before settling on Lopetegui, the club hierarchy held talks with highly-rated Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim. However, concerns over Amorim's sizable release clause, believed to exceed £10million, redirected their focus to Lopetegui.
Lopetegui, who hasn't signed a contract with the Hammers yet, will come to the London Stadium with impressive European credentials. He led Sevilla to UEFA Europa League glory in the 2019/20 season and achieved success at the international level with Spain's under-19 and under-21 teams.

In a coaching career spanning over 20 years, Lopetegui has achieved significant milestones, notably guiding La Roja to win the UEFA under-19 and under-21 European Championships in 2012 and 2013, respectively. Post his stint with FC Porto, he was appointed head coach for the Spanish senior team in July 2016. However, he was dismissed from his position on the eve of the 2018 World Cup following the announcement that he would be taking charge of Real Madrid post the tournament.
Now, as Lopetegui readies for his moment in the London Stadium spotlight, West Ham supporters will be looking for a revival in form under the experienced guidance of their newfound coach.