West Ham United haven’t given their fans much to cheer about this season despite splashing the cash on one of the most talented squads in the Premier League.
Julen Lopetegui, who succeeded David Moyes over the summer, was eager for a clean slate and demanded a comprehensive squad overhaul.
Lopetegui wanted a squad built in his image to set the tone for an exciting new era, and the board duly obliged, handing technical director Tim Steidten a war chest to meet the manager’s demands.
However, eight games into the season, West Ham are languishing in mid-table mediocrity, leaving a sizeable chunk of the fans calling for Lopetegui to be sacked.
It seemed like the recent 4-1 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur would be the final straw, but the board appear to be doubling down on their managerial gamble.
Despite the summer splurge, there are still a few gaps in the Hammers squad that need to be plugged when the January transfer window opens, especially in the middle of the park.
However, unless Lopetegui finds a way to turn things around, he may not last long enough to oversee another transfer window.
West Ham’s next five fixtures are against Manchester United, Nottingham Forest, Everton, Newcastle United and Arsenal – a daunting run of games that couldn’t have come at a worse time for Lopetegui.
Whether he remains in the dugout at the start of next year or not, West Ham must address the gaps in the squad to push for a higher finish in the Premier League.
West Ham need a tempo-setter
West Ham’s squad rebuild addressed every area of the squad, but they’ll need to loosen their purse strings again in January to land a midfielder who can control games and set the tempo.
Despite signing Guido Rodriguez and Carlos Soler last summer, neither of them ticks the box of a proper deep-lying midfielder who balances his defensive duties with dictating play.
The Hammers have struggled to control games, especially when playing against high-pressing opponents. They need a player who can keep the ball and help the team transition smoothly from defence to attack.
Declan Rice performed this task before his big-money move to Arsenal, but West Ham have not adequately replaced him.
West Ham may also need to find a long-term replacement for Edson Alvarez, who has taken every opportunity to mention his availability.
The Mexican defensive midfielder was close to joining Chelsea before his move to the London Stadium.
Given West Ham’s current struggles, he’ll likely welcome a chance to jump ship if a top club comes knocking.
The Hammers must be proactive in handling the situation to avoid creating even more gaps in the squad.
