Julen Lopetegui dubbed ‘Spanish David Moyes’ as West Ham United fans set for disappointment
Dan Bardell isn’t convinced that Julen Lopetegui would be a step up from David Moyes as the Spaniard edges closer to becoming West Ham United manager.
After the announcement that Moyes would be departing the London Stadium upon the expiry of his contract, rumours have been spreading over his replacement.
It had been reported as early as April that Lopetegui was under consideration by the Hammers to become manager [Sky Sports].
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist, Bardell doesn’t think the Spaniard will prove to be better than Moyes based on his time with Wolves last season.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, he said: “I’m not sure this is a step up. I think West Ham have essentially gone for the Spanish David Moyes.
“Someone who gets teams punching above their weight will potentially push towards European football, he’s just got a fancier name. I honestly don’t think there’s much difference between the two managers.
“Wolves didn’t play fantastic football and when fans bang on about this ‘West Ham Way’. I don’t think with Lopetegui that’s what they’ll see.
“You are not going to see the type of football I think West Ham fans want. I think it’ll be eerily similar, he’ll get West Ham pushing towards the top eight but that’s what they’re doing anyway. It’s a strange appointment.”
Is Julen Lopetegui an improvement for West Ham United?
Lopetegui is a coach who highly alters his team based on who the opponents are to find ways around them to win football matches.
There are times he prefers to make use of a low block to shut out tougher opposition which he will likely do against the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal.
Although Hammers fans want to see progressive football, this tactical approach is necessary occasionally to secure results.
Against “easier” opposition he isn’t afraid to make use of a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 which will allow the attacking players to flourish.
This system will suit West Ham’s talent like Jarrod Bowen, Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paqueta going forward.
It must be said that this tactical approach is similar sounding to how Moyes was operating and had proved to be effective.
If it is Lopetegui that comes in then fans can be hopeful of moving forward under their new manager.