Lopetegui extremely angry at Gerard Pique accusation, may go public at West Ham
Julen Lopetegui is “greatly angered” by Gerard Pique after he accused the West Ham manager of forcing him to apologise for his political stance, according to Diario AS.
Pique recently shared that Lopetegui, as well as Sergio Ramos, suggested that he apologise for supporting the Catalonian referendum during his time as the Spain coach in 2017.
The Spanish newspaper reported via their website on 27 November that the 58-year-old is surprised by the accusation and has “categorically denied” it.
In Lopetegui’s view, it was Pique’s decision to hold a press conference to clarify his stance and may now go public to address the situation.
Lopetegui caught in Gerard Pique controversy amid West Ham concerns
Pique’s comments have put Lopetegui in the spotlight in Spain when he already has a lot going on at West Ham.
The Guardian reported last week that the former Sevilla manager’s future at the London Stadium will depend on the results against Newcastle [25 November] and Arsenal [30 November].
He will be a relieved man after leading the Hammers to a 2-0 win against the Magpies at St. James’ Park on Monday and steering them six points away from the relegation zone.
However, there is still a lot of work to do in East London as the Irons prepare to host Mikel Arteta and Co on Saturday.
Meanwhile, it remains to be seen if the head coach will indeed go public and respond to Pique’s accusation.
West Ham fans will be hopeful that the issue cools down as soon as possible as the former Wolves boss tries to turn things around at the club.
In other West Ham news, the Irons have made a decision regarding the January exit of this player.
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