Football News: Julen Lopetegui, who was named to Manchester United’s coaching shortlist, is expected to leave Sevilla at the end of the current season.
Lopetegui received a contract extension until the summer of 2024 earlier this season. He is well-liked in the game and was one of four candidates selected for the United post, which was ultimately given to Ajax coach Erik ten Hag.
The Spaniard took himself out of contention for the Old Trafford job in March, indicating a long-term commitment to Sevilla.
However, following a prolonged period of poor play, it is now unclear whether the club will keep the coach after this season. A meeting between the parties is planned for the end of the season.
Football News: Lopetegui led Sevilla to Europa League glory
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The former Spain manager won the Europa League trophy in his first season with the Andalusian club. He is on the verge of steering his side to the Champions League for the third consecutive season. However, the second half of the season’s results and performances have been concerning.
Sevilla was just a point behind Real Madrid during the halfway point of the La Liga season. They signed Jesus ‘Tecatito’ Corona from Porto and forward Anthony Martial on loan from Manchester United. There was genuine hope that the team may win their second league title and first since 1946.
On the other hand, Sevilla has won just four of their 16 La Liga games since January, reducing them to a fight for a top-four finish. They can seal with just one point from their final two games. In the Europa League, they lost to West Ham in the Round of 16 stages.
The fans are dissatisfied with recent results and performances. They believe that the team is falling short of expectations.
Despite having the greatest defensive record in La Liga, they have only scored 51 goals in 36 league matches. This is the fewest of any of the top five clubs in the league and 22 fewer than Real Madrid.
Sevilla fans not happy with Lopetegui
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Recent home draws against relegation-threatened Cadiz and Mallorca have added to Lopetegui’s pressure, with Sevilla supporters voicing their unhappiness. His position is currently being considered by the club.
Sevilla’s board of directors is said to be split on the former Real Madrid coach’s future. Some believe he is still a top-level coach who can turn around his team’s poor run, which still appears to assure Champions League football. Given that he has two years left on his contract, any dismissal would be costly.
However, there is an acknowledgment that recent results and performances have been far below average. There is no shortage of disappointment that a squad with so much financial backing appears to have plateaued.
