Guillem Balague hits back over Lopetegui amid West Ham United sack news
Guillem Balague has launched a stark defence of Julen Lopetegui by suggesting claims that he is not good enough to manage West Ham United are wide of the mark.
The Spaniard will take preparations ahead of the clash against Wolves on Monday [9 December], knowing anything less than three points will end his time in East London.
However, Balague has spoken in support of his Spanish compatriot on BBC 5 Live [5 December, 7:00pm] and believes Lopetegui has been mistreated during his time with the Hammers.
He said: “One thing that really surprises me, and I’ve got a bone to pick with some people, is how he’s been treated.
“I just feel like somebody who was Spanish national manager, Real Madrid manager, won the Europa League with Sevilla – some people were saying that he cannot be good enough for a team that finished ninth in the Premier League last season.”
Julen Lopetegui is not good enough for West Ham United
Yes, managing the Spanish national side is impressive, and yes, managing Real Madrid is too, but suggesting that Lopetegui is a competent manager for the Premier League is nothing short of delusional.
The Spaniard failed to make it work at Wolves, and unfortunately for the West Ham faithful, David Sullivan was fooled into thinking the story would have a happier ending in East London.
Lopetegui could save his job for the time being with a victory over Wolves, but he is likely to remain in his role until the board comes to a resounding decision on who the best replacement is.
Despite the supporters making their feelings known towards the boss, calling for his sacking at the King Power Stadium during the 3-1 loss against Leicester City, when all is said and done, football is a business, and it is not smart business to cut off the head without a replacement raring to go.
Therefore, the never-ending cycle will continue, with Lopetegui handed one final chance to turn the tide and succeed, only to return to square one the week after.
This has to end now, regardless of the result against Wolves.
In other West Ham news, Gabriel Agbonlahor was ‘shocked’ by the Irons’ decision on Julen Lopetegui.
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