West Ham United defeated Manchester United 2-1 over the weekend to take three crucial points in the Premier League.
The win has sparked renewed hope among the West Ham fanbase. They believe they have found a tactical formula that could potentially turn the season around.
Manager Julen Lopetegui switched to a three-at-the-back formation in the second half. It was a game-changer as the new set-up caught United by surprise.
The system allowed West Ham to have numbers in the back protecting their rearguard while disrupting United’s attacking rhythm.
“It was a really positive change from Lopetegui to alter the game,” Stephen Warnock said on Match of the Day 2. “In the first half, they (Man Utd) created lots of opportunities.
“In the second half, when you’ve got five men behind the ball, it became one of those situations when Bruno Fernandes was taking pot-shots from outside the box.”
However, it is important to note that this tweak worked against a tactically bankrupt Man United side in turmoil.
West Ham’s defensive deficiency was still on display, even with more bodies at the back. Casemiro was between five claret shirts when he headed home the equaliser.
The fans also need to consider that the penalty that led to Jarrod Bowen’s winner should not have been awarded.
While the victory was undoubtedly a significant boost for West Ham, it is crucial to approach it with a degree of caution.
West Ham’s underlying issues, particularly the inconsistency and lack of attacking creativity, remain unresolved. Guido Rodriguez and Carlos Soler still struggled.
The three-at-the-back system may offer a short-term solution, but it is unclear whether it can be a sustainable long-term strategy.
Lopetegui still has much work to do to get this West Ham firing on all cylinders. He must find a way to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair.
The Spaniard needs to identify his best starting XI and develop a cohesive playing style that the team can execute consistently.
The true test will come in the weeks and months ahead. If Lopetegui can build on the momentum gained from the United victory and deliver consistent results, then maybe he has a winning formula.
However, if the Hammers continue to struggle, questions will continue to linger about his long-term future at the club.
