The transformation under Julen Lopetegui at West Ham United has had a challenging start, but recent developments may signal a turning point for the team. Following a crucial victory against Manchester United last weekend, there’s a renewed sense of optimism that this win could be the catalyst for the Hammers to build momentum in the coming matches.
Lopetegui officially took over as head coach on July 1st, succeeding David Moyes, but has faced difficulties in fully integrating his vision with the players at his disposal. Reports suggest that he is under significant pressure to deliver results, but it’s widely anticipated that he will be given until at least the new year to establish his footing in the role.
A key aspect of Lopetegui’s strategy moving forward appears to involve greater reliance on his summer signings, particularly one standout player: Crysencio Summerville. The young winger showcased his talent with a remarkable performance against Manchester United, where he came off the bench to make a decisive impact. Many fans were surprised that Summerville didn’t start the match; however, Lopetegui’s decision to deploy him in the second half was strategic, aimed at exploiting the fatigue of the opposing team.
This match has led me to believe that Lopetegui is looking to center his tactical approach around Summerville. A telling statistic from the Evening Standard indicates that Summerville has received more progressive passes per 90 minutes than any of his teammates in the Premier League this season. This suggests that his teammates are increasingly looking to him as a focal point in their attacking play, a trend likely encouraged by Lopetegui himself.
I suspect that the coach has specifically instructed his players to prioritize finding Summerville during transitions, a tactical move that could significantly enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. With his exceptional pace and dynamic movement, Summerville brings a unique threat to the final third, which has been somewhat lacking in West Ham’s current setup.
As Lopetegui continues to refine his strategy, it’s crucial that he commits to starting Summerville regularly. If he can harness the winger’s potential and integrate him fully into the team’s attacking framework, I believe we will see Summerville thrive and become an essential part of West Ham’s success in the weeks and months to come. Overall, the victory over Manchester United could be the beginning of an exciting chapter for both Lopetegui and the Hammers, as they aim to establish a more cohesive and effective side.