It’s now déjà vu for both managers Lopetegui and O’Neil as Wolves face West Ham United on Monday with the two head coaches seeing their positions being hanging in the balance. The winner of what is popularly known as the “El Sackico” match will probably lose his job while a draw might not be enough to see both managers survive.
Lopetegui, whose reign at Wolves ended dramatically when he left the club days before the start of the das season is set to come up against Wolves for the first time form the dugout. The Portuguese’s departure was marked by turbulence and uncertainty over Real Madrid’s finances and after Lopetegui himself questioned the long term plan.
Wolves were clearly being pointed at by the Lopetegui, when he said: ‘Each year they sells one big player’. Arguably, this comment shows that the manager has not fully let go of bitterness in the clubs transfer policy.
Nonetheless, speaking to the media after the final whistle, Lopetegui had some kind words for his successor in the Spanish top-flight in Gary O’Neil, whom he referred to as a very good coach. But it remains far from rosy in the Florida outfit and O’Neil is under immense pressure ahead of the West Ham game.
The much expects to be an interesting one because two teams that will do anything to record a victory will be in action. Thus, although Lopetegui’s comments may regressed to past pains within Wolverhampton fans, they might just be glad that he left the club as he did because, despite much support at West Ham, he has been underwhelming.
As the two managers go head-to-head in “El Sackico,” one thing is certain: About the consequence only one side is going to win and the other one will suffer that is a common thing in humanity.