BREAKING NEWS- Gareth Southgate on the brink of being appointed as new West Ham United coach to replace Julen Lopetegui after new David Sullivan update
Chris Sutton has shared his thoughts on the swirling rumors about Gareth Southgate potentially replacing Julen Lopetegui as the next manager of West Ham United. Lopetegui is under growing pressure after West Ham’s recent 4-1 defeat to Tottenham on October 19, a disappointing return to Premier League action following the international break. The loss has left supporters questioning Lopetegui’s tactics, his suitability for the club, and his ability to lead West Ham into the future.
Despite Lopetegui’s accomplishments abroad—most notably his Europa League success with Sevilla—he has not fully convinced West Ham fans, and his recent performance has only intensified scrutiny from both fans and pundits. This uncertainty has fueled speculation that a change in leadership could be imminent, with Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter emerging as popular choices among fans.
Sutton addressed the speculation on BBC Radio Five Live’s 606 program on October 19. During the segment, one West Ham supporter voiced their desire for a managerial shake-up, citing both Southgate and Potter as intriguing options. Sutton engaged with the fan, asking, “What if Lopetegui gets replaced? Do you think West Ham should really make that change?” The fan responded enthusiastically, stating, “If it doesn’t go well over the next couple of weeks, I think we should look at someone like Graham Potter. Southgate also comes to mind, even though he’s said he might take a break before taking on another role.”
The fan went on to elaborate, emphasizing that while Lopetegui did well at Sevilla, his tenure at Wolves in the Premier League had been mixed. In the fan’s view, Southgate and Potter represent fresh approaches that could better suit West Ham’s current needs. “Southgate, despite his intentions to take some time off, could be persuaded to jump back in—coaches say these things but often change their minds quickly. Just look at Thomas Tuchel; he planned to take a break after leaving Bayern, and yet, he’s already coaching the England national team,” they explained.
Sutton responded thoughtfully, acknowledging the potential in both Southgate and Potter. “Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter, the possibilities are there,” he replied, highlighting the fan’s opinion while remaining open to both candidates’ potential to step into the West Ham role if Lopetegui is ultimately dismissed.
As for the broader fanbase, there’s a mixed sentiment regarding Southgate as a possible replacement. On one hand, his record with the England national team is hard to ignore; he led the Three Lions to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020, ending a decades-long drought of deep tournament runs. However, Southgate’s cautious and conservative style has long divided fans and pundits. His critics argue that he relies too heavily on defensive tactics, lacking the boldness and attacking flair needed to win the biggest matches.
This reputation for caution leaves some West Ham fans skeptical about Southgate’s suitability for the club. Historically, the Hammers’ fanbase has been vocal about their desire for exciting, attacking football, and there’s a concern that Southgate may not offer the dynamic approach the team needs to compete in the Premier League. Adding to the skepticism, Southgate’s previous stint in club management with Middlesbrough didn’t yield significant success, further casting doubt on his ability to thrive at the London Stadium.
In contrast, Graham Potter represents a different managerial profile that many fans believe aligns more closely with West Ham’s aspirations. Known for his progressive, attacking brand of football, Potter garnered widespread praise during his tenure at Brighton & Hove Albion. His tactical flexibility, player development skills, and willingness to adapt his approach based on the team’s needs all make him a promising candidate to reinvigorate West Ham. Potter’s commitment to entertaining, forward-thinking football has not only yielded positive results but also endeared him to fans across the league, and many at West Ham see him as a strong candidate to implement a new, ambitious vision.
If the club’s decision-makers are to move on from Lopetegui, Potter’s combination of experience and style could make him an ideal fit for West Ham. His potential appointment would likely reinvigorate a fanbase eager for a coach who can implement an attractive, attacking approach that aligns with the club’s storied history and identity.
In summary, while Lopetegui remains in charge for now, recent performances have intensified questions about his future. Fans and pundits alike are increasingly discussing alternatives, with Southgate and Potter emerging as top candidates. Southgate brings a pedigree in managing high-stakes international tournaments and a disciplined approach that could offer stability, but his conservative tactics could clash with West Ham’s desire for a bolder, attacking style. Potter, on the other hand, appears to be a closer fit to the club’s vision, thanks to his tactical acumen and commitment to offensive football.
Ultimately, West Ham’s board faces a pivotal decision. If they decide to part ways with Lopetegui, their choice of replacement will send a powerful message about the club’s ambitions and identity moving forward. Whether they opt for Southgate’s disciplined leadership or Potter’s creative approach, fans are eagerly awaiting a resolution that will bring clarity—and hopefully, a more successful future—to the London Stadium.
