Gabriel Agbonlahor feels Julen Lopetegui is in for a difficult debut season at West Ham United.
Julen Lopetegui has taken over from David Moyes at the London Stadium and despite the growing frustration towards the Scotsman in his final season in charge, the former Wolves boss has big shoes to fill.
Moyes had West Ham regularly competing for a spot in Europe and supporters will need no reminding of his Europa Conference League triumph last year.
And Gabriel Agbonlahor feels Lopetegui will struggle to meet expectations after the Hammers enjoyed a successful spell under Moyes.
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Agbonlahor makes West Ham prediction
Speaking on talkSPORT [02/7, 7:51 am], Agbonlahor explained why he believes Lopetegui could be set for a ‘disappointing’ debut season at West Ham.
The former Aston Villa striker also feels the Hammers could regret getting rid of Moyes.
“Where can you see West Ham finishing, though? Manchester United are going to get better this season, so are Chelsea. Villa are going to be up there again,” Agbonlahor said.
“Can’t even see West Ham top seven, so that’s a disappointing season for West Ham fans with what they want to see from their team. So, it’s going to be very difficult for Lopetegui. It’s not going to be an easy ride.
“Sometimes you regret what you let go, and I feel that it could easily be that for West Ham getting rid of David Moyes.”
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West Ham set for exciting new era under Lopetegui
While there are likely to be some reservations about replacing Moyes, Lopetegui has a proven track record at the highest level.
The Spaniard delivered a Europa League title during his time at Sevilla and done a brilliant job at Wolves before an early exit last summer.
With Tim Steidten also heading up their business in the transfer market, West Ham supporters have every right to be excited about the future.
To write them off before a ball has even been kicked feels slightly harsh on Lopetegui and it was clear that the club needed to head in a fresh direction despite Moyes’ undoubted success.
