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The Lopetegui Era: A Look at Potential Starters

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West Ham United is gearing up for a new chapter under manager Julen Lopetegui. With David Moyes’ departure, a significant squad overhaul is expected, with up to 12 players possibly leaving.

While some key departures seem likely, the core for Lopetegui’s system is starting to take shape. Here are six players who could be crucial next season:

Jarrod Bowen: The 27-year-old forward enjoyed a stellar season with 20 goals and 10 assists. His impressive form makes him a guaranteed starter and a potential England call-up.

Mohammed Kudus: The Ghanaian newcomer has been a revelation, contributing 14 goals and 6 assists. His electric pace and power are a valuable asset for Lopetegui’s tactics. However, keeping him beyond next season could be a challenge.

Edson Alvarez: The Mexican midfielder quickly became a fan favourite with his energetic play and ability to control the midfield. His defensive solidity makes him a likely anchor in Lopetegui’s midfield.

Emerson Palmieri: The Italian left-back has been a consistent performer. While nearing 30, his experience offers valuable cover. Lopetegui might utilise him as a wing-back, adding a new dimension to his role.

Alphonse Areola: The undisputed number one goalkeeper, Areola boasts an impressive save record. Despite room for improvement in commanding his area, he’s expected to remain in goal.

Konstantinos Mavropanos: After a shaky start, the Greek defender has shown growth and become a reliable presence in central defence. His development is expected to continue under Lopetegui.

Players like Soucek, Zouma, Coufal, and Antonio, who were mainstays under Moyes, could be sold or relegated to squad roles. Paqueta’s future remains uncertain, but if he stays, he’ll undoubtedly be a key starter.

Lopetegui’s arrival promises a fresh start for West Ham, with a blend of established talent and potential departures. The six players mentioned above form a strong foundation for the upcoming season, while the fate of other squad members remains to be seen.

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6 comments

  • JBod says:

    Bar Areola and Alvarez I think the whole defensive team need replacement now! Can’t go another season with this team. Shipped a lot of goals, two new CBs and I’d see a new upgrade on cougar and Emerson. Unless paw plays he’s lost and not been great recently. Cougar can’t moan about him as he give 100% but he gets roasted by quality players. Two new strikers a must

  • Mark says:

    Lopetrgui plays with 3 technical midfield players soucek might be a benefit defending but the guy can’t complete a 5 yard pass and will get found out very quickly- squad player at best, get forfana in

  • Jeeps says:

    Ogbonna (age) and Zoom(a) (legs) only still there due to Moyes. They will be non starters.
    No mention of Ward-Prowse?
    West Ham sub bench so weak, needs strengthening.
    Even if they use Academy providing they play them.

  • Westham64 says:

    Everyone should have a read at this Times analysis of Lopetegui. Makes interesting reading for the naysayers.

    https://link.thetimes.co.uk/view/61951ae53c8a77683416a0bel1xv3.2be/a4506a06

  • Deathblow says:

    He’d be a moron to get rid of Soucek. I know you’re all Soucek-haters cos they’re not flashy ‘names’ but I’d rather have a team full of real men like him and Vlad, and Bowen, than your mercenary big-time charlies who use us for the money, the London lifestyle then **** off as soon as some state sponsored club winks at them.

    It all went tits up the more we got those type of players in. The slug Sullivan always conned by agents and the glow of the big name like you. No wonder you’re his chsen gossip mongers.
    If we’d stuck to players like Tomas, Vlad and Bowen and purchased hungry, honest pros, perhaps David Moyes would still be in a job.

    **** right off slagging these guys off for your glory boys. They’re not The West Ham Way. #SullivanBradyOUT

  • Mr Buddy Lurve says:

    Agree in the main, Simon, but it depends on formation for me. Emerson would be a great wing-back, but he’s an awful right-back. Masuaku 2.0 – exciting going forward but a liability at the back.

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