West Ham United’s turbulent season has taken another hit as reports of unrest within the squad surface. Two summer signings reportedly regret joining the club, and a key player from last season is considering leaving if significant changes are not made. These revelations add to the growing challenges for manager Julen Lopetegui, whose tenure has been plagued by internal discord and poor results.
Players Express Unhappiness with Lopetegui
Reports suggest that Lopetegui is under considerable pressure. With upcoming matches against Newcastle and Arsenal, the club’s owners have made it clear they expect improved performances. However, Lopetegui’s time at the club has been marred by claims of dissatisfaction among the players. Journalist Alex Crook and others have reported that some players remain unconvinced by the manager’s approach.
The dissatisfaction boiled over during a dressing room incident involving Mohammed Kudus after West Ham’s loss to Brentford. Kudus, who has been a standout performer, was criticized by Lopetegui for being selfish, despite his impressive contributions on the pitch. Kudus ranks among the top players in terms of ball recoveries this season and had carried much of the team’s workload during a challenging year. Angered by the criticism, Kudus confronted Lopetegui and later expressed his frustration by kicking a seat after being substituted.
Kudus has since been sidelined for three matches and will miss the crucial upcoming games. There are also rumors linking him to a potential move to Arsenal in the summer, raising further questions about his future at the club.
Issues Extend Beyond Kudus
Mohammed Kudus isn’t the only player at odds with Lopetegui. Midfielder Edson Álvarez has shown visible frustration during games, including dissent when substituted and incidents of indiscipline, such as receiving two red cards this season. Meanwhile, Lucas Paquetá has also displayed discontent with the manager.
The problems are exacerbated by the recent actions of other players, including three who openly expressed their dissatisfaction after being substituted during a match against Everton. These instances reflect deeper issues within the squad and the manager’s inability to foster harmony.
Transfer Woes: Key Players Want Out
The unrest has extended to summer signings Niclas Füllkrug and Guido Rodríguez. Füllkrug, who joined from Borussia Dortmund for £23.5 million, has struggled with injuries and has yet to make a significant impact. He has spent nearly three months on the sidelines and may not be match-fit until the new year. Reports suggest Füllkrug is unsettled in England and could leave the club before making his Premier League debut.
Guido Rodríguez, who joined West Ham from Real Betis, reportedly regrets his move and longs for a return to Spain. Former West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini, now at Betis, is said to be open to bringing Rodríguez back, potentially on loan in January. Rodríguez’s dissatisfaction comes as a blow to West Ham, who invested significantly in the midfielder but may struggle to recoup their costs given his short contract.
Adding to these challenges is Edson Álvarez, who has reportedly informed the club that he wants to leave if Lopetegui remains as manager. Álvarez’s strained relationship with Lopetegui has been evident, with the two avoiding interaction after Álvarez’s red card at Nottingham Forest. The Mexican midfielder has also been linked to clubs such as Atlético Madrid and Manchester United, further fueling speculation about his future.
A Manager Under Fire
Lopetegui’s position appears increasingly untenable as the discontent within the squad mounts. His decisions and relationships with key players have been questioned, with incidents of dissent highlighting a fractured dressing room. While the players seeking to leave have underperformed this season, their potential departures may help West Ham raise funds for new signings.
Despite these challenges, the pressure on Lopetegui to turn things around remains high. With a demanding schedule ahead and the January transfer window approaching, West Ham faces a critical period that could define their season and the manager’s future.