West Ham United‘s pre-season match against Wolverhampton Wanderers provided a glimpse into manager Julen Lopetegui’s tactical vision, with both positive and negative aspects emerging.
However, it is clear that Lopetegui’s new system will suit some players better than others. Tomas Soucek struggled in possession and was at fault for Wolves’ opening goal when he gave the ball away in front of his own goal. Youngster Freddie Potts, who had a successful loan spell with Wycome last season, looked to be more comfortable in the system.
The Hammers demonstrated an increased intensity and possession-based approach, highlighting the impact of the Spaniard’s coaching. However, defensive vulnerabilities were exposed, particularly in the second half.
Mohammed Kudus showcased his attacking flair and importance to the team, while the need for a new striker became evident. The club’s pursuit of defensive reinforcements, particularly at right-back, remains a priority.
Lopetegui still has a number of weeks to drill his system into his players, with the likes of Lucas Paqueta, Jarrod Bowen and Edson Alvarez (currently injured), set to join the squad in Tampa next week.
Overall, the match offered valuable insights into West Ham’s progress under Lopetegui, with areas for improvement identified ahead of the new Premier League season.
We need a defensive midfielder that much is clear Soucek isn’t suited to the role nor is JWP so if they can’t get a striker get a cdm obviously central defender and left winger why haven’t we had a bid accepted for Jota Silva ?
Duran looks unlikely at the minute so we are probably stuck with Antonio/Ings/Bowen as the opti
Defense concerns.
This was known at end of season.
6 weeks down the line and just one player signed to strengthen back line.
R/bk, c/bk and l/bk all needed to allow front runners to stay in attack and not have to bail defence out.
WHU transfer season in mini crisis _what an under statement.
Mid table if we’re lucky
Big fan of Jlo. Glad he’s here. Love the energy and passion of youth. But cresswell, zouma, soucek, ings, jwp, coufal, antonio as our senior squad? Forget it we’re going down – the squad Moyes left us with is slow, plodding and unskillful. This lot are championship level. Bowen and Kudus must be dreading this season. Paqueta and Alvarez? They could make the difference between 17th and 13th. Kilman will help in a relegation fight but Guilherme was money wasted imo. Unless the kids step up this is going to get messy. I genuinely hope i eat my words.
However, it is clear that Lopetegui’s new system will suit some players better than others. Tomas Soucek struggled in possession and was at fault for Wolves’ opening goal when he gave the ball away in front of his own goal. Youngster Freddie Potts, who had a successful loan spell with Wycome last season, looked to be more comfortable in the system.
I’ve just read this word for word in the Mail’s review. You have Fleet Street copying you?
Some of us have more sense than to read the Fail so pull your neck in. Jeez!
How can a player be sold for £18 million just 18 months ago not hold down a first team shirt now be worth £40 million it’s absolutel b s
The little fella has small man syndrome, which is why he always go’s low ball, you can only go high ball if your of the taller persuasion. I guess that is an apt description of him.
I am not reading too much into these pre season friendlies win, lose or draw. Thank God it shows us how much work is required. We better stop sending in low ball offers and paying the money for players we want! COYI’s