West Ham United are beginning to weigh their options in the managerial market, with Julen Lopetegui under immense pressure, especially after Sunday’s 5-2 humbling against Arsenal at the London Stadium.
According toThe Guardian, the Hammers may approach experienced Portuguese manager Sergio Conceicao if they decide to part ways with Lopetegui.
The Spanish manager only replaced David Moyes last summer, but his position has come under intense scrutiny given West Ham’s awful start to the season.
Heseemed to have steadied the ship with an impressive 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at St. James’ Park – only their fourth winof the season.
However, Sunday’s dismal performance against Arsenal has reignited doubts about his ability to turn things around, with the Hammers trailing by 4-0 just over half an hour into the contest.
West Ham will get a chance to pick up some crucial points in the coming weeks with games against Leicester City, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Bournemouth looming.
The club’s hierarchyhave chosen to stay their hand for now, but if things don’t improve over the next couple of games, Lopetegui could be out of a job before Christmas.
West Hamhave been quietly exploring managerial options, and Conceicao has emerged as a leading candidate thanks to his impressive CV.
Duringa seven-year spell at the Estadio do Dragao, the 50-year-old led Porto to 11 trophies, including three league titles and two Champions League quarter-finals.
Therehasn’t been any direct contact between West Ham and Conceicao, but the Portuguese manager will reportedly welcome a chance to work in the Premier League.
The club’s extensive managerial shortlist also includes six-time Serie A winner Massimiliano Allegri,who has recentlybeen spotted in London.
Former Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion manager Graham Potter and ex-Paris Saint-Germain boss Christophe Galtier, currently coaching in Qatar, have also been linked to the role.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com