West Ham United’s 2024 campaign has unravelled in disappointing fashion, with the club’s misjudged managerial decisions now under intense scrutiny. Following a steady few seasons under David Moyes, a change at the top was meant to push the Hammers to new heights. Instead, it has sent them into a tailspin.
A Promising Era Ends in Turmoil
Last season, the Hammers secured a respectable ninth-place finish in the Premier League – their third top-half result in four full seasons under Moyes. The Scottish manager also delivered silverware in 2023, lifting the UEFA Europa Conference League. But despite the success, Moyes was dismissed at the end of the campaign.
Julen Lopetegui was brought in last summer to build on the foundations laid by Moyes. A bold move. A risky one. And now, clearly, the wrong one.
A Short-Lived Stint with Long-Term Damage
Lopetegui’s reign was brief and disappointing. He lasted just 22 games, notching up only seven wins before being dismissed in January, barely six months into a two-year contract.
His tenure saw:
- 22 matches played
- 7 wins
- 5 draws
- 10 losses
- 26 goals scored
- 44 goals conceded
That dismal record leaves little defence for the decision to appoint him in the first place.
“He clearly wasn’t the right profile to take the club forward, and his appointment has proven to be a monumental mistake.”
Now, Lopetegui has found a new role as manager of the Qatar national team, signing a two-year deal. Well-paid, no doubt, but symbolic of how far removed he was from the ambitions West Ham had.
Missed Opportunities and Poor Planning
Despite frustration with stagnating performances under Moyes, there was little indication that Lopetegui was a natural successor. His last trophy win came with Sevilla in the Europa League in 2020. Since then, his managerial record hasn’t exactly sparkled.
And then there’s the spending. Over £120 million was splashed on nine new signings during the summer. Most have failed to impress. That financial outlay, paired with poor results, reflects badly on the club’s leadership, particularly co-owner David Sullivan.
The club’s handling of Moyes’s departure was also poorly timed. His exit wasn’t confirmed until late in the season, suggesting a lack of preparation at board level.
Potter’s Rocky Start Brings New Questions
Graham Potter stepped in as Lopetegui’s replacement, signing a two-and-a-half-year deal. Yet the former Chelsea boss has also struggled. Just three wins from 15 games. Fans are growing restless.
Currently sat 17th in the table, West Ham are fortunate that the relegation battle has already been settled with Ipswich Town, Leicester City and Southampton heading back to the Championship.
Potter knows the pressure is mounting. He has reportedly requested significant backing in the upcoming transfer window.
“Potter is now demanding to be heavily backed this summer as he looks to get the Hammers moving in the right direction again.”
Financial Impact Looms
This poor campaign is expected to hit West Ham’s prize money and, in turn, affect their summer transfer budget. That makes Potter’s demand for funds even more challenging.
While there’s no immediate danger of relegation, the Hammers must recalibrate quickly. Another season like this one, and the damage could become long-term.
Conclusion: Time for a Smarter Strategy
West Ham’s decision to part ways with Moyes and appoint Lopetegui was a gamble that’s clearly backfired. David Sullivan and the board now face the consequences of a poorly executed transition. With Graham Potter under pressure and a shaky squad in place, the upcoming summer will be crucial.
There must be clearer planning. Better recruitment. And above all, a defined long-term strategy. Because if West Ham continue to operate without one, they risk undoing the hard work of previous years.
