West Ham United twist shocks David Ornstein after ‘remarkable’ Julen Lopetegui decision
Julen Lopetegui has recognised how far West Ham United and the Premier League have progressed as part of his decision to shun the likes of AC Milan and Bayern Munich, says David Ornstein.
Ornstein explained on The Athletic Podcast [7 May] that the 57-year-old – whose last job was also in the Premier League with Wolves – was convinced by the project at the London Stadium and the foundations in place, largely thanks to the outgoing David Moyes along with the anticipated financial freedom in the transfer market.
Whilst it’s uncertain whether Lopetegui was outrightly offered the Bayern job, the European giants did make enquiries along with Milan, several other English clubs and the Spaniard also turned down an offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad.
“Lopetegui is one [Bayern] had reached out to, and we revealed when the news emerged that he and West Ham had agreed terms, that Bayern had been in touch that day, which is remarkable,” said Ornstein.
“They enquired about the possibility of taking [their interest] further, but he was enthused by the West Ham project and scope to take them to the next level.
“People wondered what on earth was happening, but it indicates how far West Ham and the Premier League have come, and how attractive these opportunities are.”
Can Lopetegui take West Ham to the next level?
West Ham are making a bold statement with Lopetegui – the aforementioned level of interest and standard of clubs mooted show his nine months away from the game were merely voluntary.
David Moyes had achieved the club’s first major honour in 43 years last season and has still been cast aside in favour of a new direction, so the pressure is no doubt on the former Real Madrid and Spain coach from the outset.
The recruitment team – of which Lopetegui will play a significant part – are expected to head into this summer armed with a ‘transfer war chest’ – particularly if Lucas Paqueta’s rumoured big-money switch to Manchester City were to go through.
The new coach’s achievements both domestically, in Europe and internationally will give Hammers fans plenty to be excited about, and minds will no doubt be put to rest over Lopetegui’s eagerness to be in it for the long haul with the patient approach he has taken to finding his next chapter.
In other West Ham news, Frank McAvennie has told the club to cash in on two star players after Saudi approaches.
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