Lopetegui will be handed the Wolves game to save his job as West Ham boss

Julen Lopetegui will remain in charge of West Ham United for Monday's crunch Premier League clash against Wolves.

This comes despite increased scrutiny of his position as manager.

Speculation over Lopetegui's future has intensified since Tuesday's 3-1 defeat by Leicester City, which marked West Ham's second straight defeat after an earlier defeat at home to Arsenal.

However, multiple sources have confirmed that the club's board has decided to keep the Spanish manager, at least for the time being.

Earlier reports suggested that a decision on Lopetegui's immediate future would be made before the weekend.

While the club's chiefs admit recent results have dampened the optimism sparked by the Hammers' impressive 1-0 win at Newcastle in late November, they have opted to give Lopetegui another chance to steady the ship.

Senior Hammers officials have been considering the Spaniard's position. #WHUFC pic.twitter.com/WltAUCrayo

– BBC Sport (@BBCSport) December 5, 2024

The decision to back Lopetegui comes despite growing discontent among fans, many of whom are calling for a change in manager.

The defeat at Leicester highlighted West Ham's ongoing struggles, particularly in taking chances – despite 30 shots on goal – and the defensive lapses that allowed opponents to score too easily.

West Ham's upcoming game against Wolves will be crucial for both teams as Wolves manager Gary O'Neill is also under intense pressure following Wednesday's 3-0 defeat at Everton.

Graham Potter, the former Brighton and Chelsea manager, has been linked with a job at West Ham should the club decide to part ways with Lopetegui.

However, for now, the Hammers appear committed to sticking with their current manager.

West Ham's upcoming schedule could define their season – and potentially Lopetegui's tenure.

After facing Wolves, the Hammers will face Bournemouth, Brighton and Southampton before testing encounters with title contenders Liverpool and Manchester City.

With the pressure mounting and time running out to turn the season around, all eyes will be on Monday's clash at the London Stadium to see if Lopetegui can deliver the results the club so desperately need.