ex-Juventus and Milan coach linked with West Ham job
According to a report from The Guardian, former Juventus and AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has emerged as a potential candidate to take over at West Ham United, should the club decide to part ways with current manager Julen Lopetegui. Allegri’s name is reportedly on a shortlist of managers being considered by the London-based club, which is grappling with a challenging start to the Premier League season.
While Sérgio Conceição, the former Porto manager and a seasoned tactician, is believed to be the frontrunner for the job, Allegri’s profile as an experienced and highly-decorated coach has also drawn interest. The 57-year-old Italian, who boasts an impressive track record in Serie A, was recently seen in London, adding fuel to the speculation. Allegri was reportedly spotted at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last week, watching Tottenham’s clash with Roma, further intensifying rumors about his possible return to management in England.
West Ham’s struggles this season have left them precariously close to the relegation zone, sitting just six points above the bottom three. The club’s board is said to be exploring their options as pressure mounts on Lopetegui, who has struggled to replicate the success he achieved in his previous managerial stints.
Allegri’s availability makes him an attractive option. Having been dismissed by Juventus in May, the Italian coach subsequently terminated his contract with the club, freeing him to join a new team without any legal or financial barriers. His resume is undeniably impressive, featuring six Serie A titles and five Coppa Italia triumphs across spells with Juventus and Milan, as well as managerial experience with Cagliari.
Despite his pedigree, Allegri would face significant challenges should he take over at West Ham. The team has underperformed in the league and is in desperate need of a turnaround to secure its Premier League status. Additionally, adapting to the demands of English football and working with a squad that has struggled to find consistency would test even the most seasoned manager.
For West Ham, the decision to potentially replace Lopetegui underscores the urgency of the situation. Whether the club opts for Allegri’s proven track record or Conceição’s more recent successes, a managerial change could mark a pivotal moment in their season as they aim to avoid slipping further into the relegation battle.
