“Struggling Seriously Under Lopetegui” | Hammers Days Look Numbered. By my estimations, West Ham’s starting lineup against Crystal Palace included 4-5 players who can expect to begin the Premier League season opener against Aston Villa.
Therefore, I’m not going to read too much into the result of the pre-season friendly against the Eagles, but there were snippets and clues as to what the forthcoming season might hold.
The style of play that new Hammers head coach Julen Lopetegui is trying to implement has become clear. The former Real Madrid and Spain manager is aiming to encourage more possession, tighter control, and quick interchanges of passing in restricted areas.
It is immediately evident that some players are more comfortable with this style of play than others, in what is quite a large cultural shift from former manager David Moyes’ tactics. Unfortunately, for some, it’s clear that they may not fit under Lopetegui, and I thought one player in particular struggled against Palace.
Poor Vladimir Coufal just can’t adapt to this new system. I would love to be proved wrong, but the Czech defender’s inadequacies have been exposed, particularly when he is pressed by the opposition. In previous seasons under Moyes, Coufal would have simply played the ball long down the line for Bowen to chase, a tactic now actively discouraged.
Coufal struggled against Palace
The full-backs are expected to control the ball quickly, play incisive short passes along the ground to teammates, and then move into space to receive the ball. While there is some leeway for long balls from central defenders, the emphasis appears to be on quick passes and movement.
Coufal isn’t the only one struggling with this system. Though he is making an effort to acclimate, he doesn’t seem technically proficient enough to meet the demands of his role, which will be key for West Ham under Lopetegui.
It’s evident that the club needs to upgrade this position, and West Ham’s ambition in this regard is unquestionable. It’s unfortunate to see such a likable and professional character like Coufal struggle; he has been an excellent servant to the Hammers, but it seems his days may be numbered.
