Former West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui is reportedly set to become the new Head Coach of the Qatar national team, signing a contract through to 2027.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Spaniard is poised to take charge of the Qatari national side.
It remains unclear whether West Ham will continue making severance payments to Lopetegui, who had a reported £3.3m payout clause in his contract. However, earlier today Claret & Hugh approached a senior source who clarified the situation, confirming: “It makes no difference.”
Spanish compatriot Luis García was appointed Qatar manager in December, but following a 3-1 defeat to Kyrgyzstan in March, reports indicate he is likely to be replaced.
Since departing West Ham, Lopetegui has been linked with various roles, including Belgium and Mexican club side Monterrey, underscoring his continued reputation in football. His short stint at West Ham lasted just 192 days.
Although Lopetegui is expected to earn a lucrative salary in Qatar, journalist and close friend Guillem Balagué has claimed he previously turned down a staggering £60m-per-year offer from a Saudi club in order to join West Ham.
Boy did that decision cost us. If an employee had been responsible for it they would have been sacked for negligence.