Julen Lopetegui could be saved from West Ham United sack by transfer twist
Julen Lopetegui enters 2025 under immense pressure at West Ham, having failed to get the side going since his appointment in the summer.
At the halfway point in the season, the Hammers sit eight points away from both the top six and the relegation zone, meaning they could make or break their season in the coming month.
Inconsistency in terms of results and levels of performance has left many supporters at the London Stadium dismayed with the Spaniard this term.
David Sullivan is standing by his appointment for now but, after a 5-0 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday (29 December), it is up to the 58-year-old to prove this is the right decision.
With that in mind, the January transfer window will be an integral part of the campaign, with it being essential that Lopetegui makes the necessary additions to turn his fortunes around.
West Ham Football reported (31 December) that the Hammers may choose to recall James Ward-Prowse from his loan spell at Nottingham Forest to boost their squad.
James Ward-Prowse could save West Ham this season
Although supporters will be hoping to see new faces coming into the club, expectations will need to be managed with the Hammers needing to offload players before they are able to bring in new faces.
However, the Hammers could be saved by a player they already own if the decision to bring Ward-Prowse back to East London is sanctioned.
Despite having joined Forest on a season-long loan deal, the 30-year-old has made just eight appearances in a side who that are pushing up the table this term, meaning he is not being pushed to his best at the City Ground.
Meanwhile, the Hammers are lacking in their attacking ranks and the midfielder has shown his ability to contribute, having provided seven goals and seven assists in his first season with his parent club.
Furthermore, the 30-year-old would be able to bring a level of experience to a side that is crying out for some leadership on the pitch this term.
It will take plenty for Lopetegui to turn things around in East London, but with movement limited, recalling Ward-Prowse could be a vital decision for the Hammers.
In other West Ham news, a player announcement could spell the beginning of the end for Lopetegui.
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