Four fan-favourite players have criticised West Ham coach Julen Lopetegui, which is out of order for publicity

ROMFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 02: West Ham United unveil new signing Vladimir Coufal at Rush Green on October 2, 2020 in Romford, England. (Photo by Arfa Griffiths/West Ham United FC via Getty Images)

Journalist Alex Crook recently reported growing unrest within the West Ham camp, with several players reportedly “unconvinced” by manager Julen Lopetegui’s approach.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 19: Aaron Wan Bissaka of West Ham United during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and West Ham United FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 19, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

The frustration has been clear on the pitch, with the Hammers securing just three Premier League wins from 11 matches under the Spanish coach.

However, it’s the performances that have raised more concerns among both fans and the club’s board.

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 17: Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United celebrates scoring the 2nd goal with Lucas Paqueta of West Ham United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers at London Stadium on December 17, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

West Ham’s structure has reportedly briefed journalists, including us at Hammers News, that the owners expect to see tangible improvements.

The club is under pressure, particularly ahead of upcoming matches against Newcastle and Arsenal, with heavy defeats likely to seal Lopetegui’s fate.

The 57-year-old head coach has faced common criticism for his tactics, team selections, and overall approach.

ROMFORD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 02: West Ham United unveil new signing Vladimir Coufal at Rush Green on October 2, 2020 in Romford, England. (Photo by Arfa Griffiths/West Ham United FC via Getty Images)

Several players have shown signs of discontent, with Mohammed Kudus confronting Lopetegui after being criticised in the changing room following the Brentford match.

His frustration was evident when he was substituted and kicked a seat on his way back to the bench.

Edson Alvarez has also been involved in disciplinary issues, receiving two red cards, while others like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Michail Antonio have publicly voiced their dissatisfaction with Lopetegui’s decisions.

One player, however, has gone too far by publicly criticising the manager. While many fans were pleased with the summer signing of Wan-Bissaka for £15m, there are concerns over his positioning and lack of defensive discipline.

With Vladimir Coufal also fighting for the right-back spot, the situation has become more complicated.

At 32, Coufal’s days as a first-choice right-back are surely numbered, especially with the arrival of Wan-Bissaka.

His public comments against Lopetegui are disappointing, especially considering the pressure the manager is already under.

Regardless of personal feelings about the manager, players like Coufal should be more supportive in these troubled times.

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