by Staff Writer
Wednesday, 18th December 2024
West Ham United Head Coach Julen Lopetegui has returned to Spain to be with family after his father passed away.
José Lopetegui died on Tuesday at the age of 94, prompting Lopetegui - who last saw his father last month - to return to his home nation immediately.
Julen (bottom) with his father and brothers
And this afternoon the club confirmed that Lopetegui's backroom team will be temporarily assuming the Head Coach's duties in his absence.
"West Ham United can confirm head coach Julen Lopetegui has returned to Spain to attend the funeral of his father, José, who sadly passed away on Tuesday," a spokesman told The Standard.
"The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at the club are with Julen, his family and friends, and we kindly ask that their privacy is respected at this time. Lopetegui’s coaching team will oversee training during this period."
As a result, Lopetegui is unlikely to be in the dugout this weekend when the Hammers tackle Brighton & Hove Albion at the London Olympic Stadium.
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