Ahead of their match against Arsenal, the burning question was whether West Ham United had turned a corner following their victory at
Newcastle. The answer, unfortunately, is no.While Arsenal are undoubtedly a top-tier side, few expected West Ham to challenge
them effectively. However, the brief period of resistance shown by the Hammers after Arsenal went 4-0 up should not be mistaken for a sign of
progress; it was more a result of the Gunners easing off than any sustained improvement from West Ham.
This performance was yet another example of poor defensive display, one that was both naïve and insipid. Despite spending heavily on
defenders such as Max Kilman, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka—an investment totaling £87 million—the defensive issues
persist. West Ham have now conceded 24 goals this season, the fourth-worst record in the Premier League, and if this form continues, they
could be on course to match their record worst of 74 goals conceded last season. The defeat to Arsenal follows a troubling pattern of heavy
losses to top clubs, including Manchester City, Chelsea, Spurs, Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, and now Arsenal. Such results are simply
unacceptable for a club of West Ham’s ambitions. While a narrow win at Newcastle had briefly raised hopes, pundits, including Jamie
Carragher, were quick to caution against overreacting. Carragher pointed out that if the players truly believed in manager Julen
Lopetegui, the level of effort shown against Newcastle should have been consistent throughout the season. Instead, the Hammers
were once again exposed as defensively frail and tactically incoherent.With West Ham set to face Leicester City next, the stakes are high for
Lopetegui. If the Hammers fail to secure a win against a struggling Leicester side, questions about the manager’s future will become even
harder to ignore. West Ham’s £155 million summer spending was meant to strengthen a squad that should be performing far better than
its current 14th-place standing. The club’s aging squad, compounded by questionable tactical decisions such as the substitution of pacey
winger Crysencio Summerville while trailing 5-2 at halftime, highlights the growing concerns over Lopetegui’s approach.
Fans have already begun to vote with their feet, with large numbers leaving early during several of Lopetegui’s 15 matches in charge. The lack of
energy, organization, and clear tactical direction is evident, and the club’s hierarchy must soon decide whether to
continue with Lopetegui or make a difficult but necessary decision. The defeat to Arsenal has left many wondering: Will the club’s ownership
finally act if West Ham falter against Leicester, or will they continue to stand by a manager who has yet to convince with his
methods and results? The coming days could prove pivotal in determining the future of both Lopetegui and the club’s ambition for the season.