Former West Ham boss Graham Potter might be making the news by flirting with the Sweden job, but it was another previous gaffer who stole the headlines last night.
Former Hammers manager Julen Lopetegui is heading to the World Cup with Qatar after they beat the United Arab Emirates 2-1 to secure qualification.
It should be noted that the number of teams eligible to qualify for USA 2026 has been expanded to a whopping 48 countries — up from the usual 32 — but it’s still a significant achievement for Lopetegui.
Former West Ham boss Potter now has his eyes on the Sweden job
Lopetegui’s Reputation Repaired Quickly
The Spaniard was not treated particularly well during his final days at West Ham, especially given the recent death of his father. Credit to “J-Lo” for getting back into management so quickly and rebuilding his reputation after a bruising spell in East London.
As for Potter, he has made it known that he would be interested in taking the Sweden job following the sacking of Jon Dahl Tomasson after Monday’s defeat to Kosovo.
Should Potter get the role, he would be reunited with Arsenal forward Viktor Gyökeres. Gyökeres was at Brighton under Potter, making three appearances before being moved on to Coventry City.
As Martin wrote yesterday evening, any deal for Potter would also benefit West Ham financially, as his severance payment would be reduced should he return to work immediately.
Thanks for the interesting update Gonzo – does this mean that our pay off to J-Lo has now finished? which should help with PSR