West Ham were in dire straits a couple of weeks ago when it was announced that the long-time and beloved manager, David Moyes, would not be in control of the team next year. The long-time West Ham fans, pundits, players, and coaching staff all wished that he could stay on longer, as the club has nothing but positive things to say about his demeanor, coaching style, and managerial tactics.
But, Moyes has decided to move on towards the media and punditry side of the game, which is understandable at an older age and after a prolific coaching career. So, who is next in line to take over at West Ham for the 2024-2025 Premier League season?
Lopetegui is the New West Ham Manager for Next Season
West Ham didn’t have to keep fans waiting for long before announcing their new manager for next year – Julen Lopetegui.
Julen Lopetegui is the former Wolves manager who has experience in the Premier League coaching mid-level and top-tier teams.
Lopetegui is walking into a set up that is already favoring unity, cohesion, and players first. Moyes had incredible stats during his time as the man in charge, so Lopetegui will have to mirror that. Moyes earned 1.47 goals per game, 112 passes ending in the final third per game, 1.40xG per game, more than four shots on target per game, and averaging 1.36 points per game.
Compared to Julen’s last club, Moyes bests him in almost every category. However, Julen has averaged more than 442 passes per game, which indicates a more possession-based style of play that could work with certain players, and over 50% possession every match, which is much higher than Moyes’ 42.5%.
Lopetegui seems to be very pleased with the setup he is walking into. Instead of coming into a club that is toward the bottom of the league or lacks funding or attention, it is quite the opposite.
‘We had other opportunities but I am very happy that West Ham chose me because I chose West Ham too, so we are really happy about this. We came here with the idea and the thought to make a big, big noise. That’s why we came here, and we are excited by this challenge. Of course, we are going to do our best to help the club and the team to achieve the best level and to achieve our aims. I assure the fans that they are going to be key in all our achievements.’
West Ham Untied Excited for New Manager
Say hello to the new Head Coach of West Ham United 👋⁰
Welcome to London, Julen Lopetegui! ⚒️ pic.twitter.com/2aCO0pY3Km— West Ham United (@WestHam) May 23, 2024
West Ham United are just as excited as Julen for this new partnership. If they had to part ways with Moyes, the new gaffer seems like the best choice.
‘We are very pleased to welcome Julen and his staff to our club. He was a stand out candidate to become our head coach and I am personally delighted that we have chosen to work together. His career shows that, wherever he has coached, he has improved players and teams…’
West Ham hope to improve on their finish from this year in the Premier league table. Despite putting up good results, like drawing with Liverpool towards the end of the season, putting up a fight against Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League quarter final, and beating Wolves and Luton Town in close games, they can still finish higher next year.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
