West Ham United set to sack manager after poor string of results

West Ham took advantage of the international break for looking at possible successors for Julen Lopetegui, who is facing two games that may make or break the team. Even while the team is holding out hope that the Spaniard can improve things, there is a real chance that the manager could be sacked this month since trust in him is eroding.

It is acknowledged that a lot will depend on West Ham's performance when they face Arsenal on Saturday and travel to Newcastle on Monday. Lopetegui is under a lot of pressure following a bad start, so losses in those games might have major consequences. West Ham could even be forced to make a decision if Newcastle United wins by a significant margin.

The biggest stakeholder of West Ham, David Sullivan, has been hesitant to fire players in the middle of the season. However, there is rising concern over Lopetegui's performances, and it is believed that discussions about changing things have taken place.

It is said that West Ham has not chosen a preferred candidate for Lopetegui, despite winning three out of their 11 games and being five points outside the bottom three. They have examined Edin Terzic, the former manager of Borussia Dortmund, and conducted internal investigations of Sebastian Hoeness of Stuttgart, Kasper Hjulmand of Denmark, and Roger Schmidt of Benfica. Graham Potter, the former manager of Chelsea, is available for both long-term and short-term assignments, although West Ham has never been interested in him.

West Ham United and their growing concerns this season

When Everton held West Ham to a goalless draw in their latest match, the mood inside the London Stadium seemed subdued. Star players aren't playing well, and Lopetegui's strategies have drawn criticism. There have also been disciplinary problems, the football seemed dull, and the fresh faces have not fitted in. 

Concerns about hiring have also drawn attention to Tim Steidten, the technical director. Although there have been rumors that Steidten doesn't like Lopetegui, it is believed that the German was part of the process that resulted in the hiring of the 58-year-old.