West Ham have now had an approach rejected for out-of-work boss Rafael Benitez as they sound out possible David Moyes replacements.
The Lowdown: Hammers linked…
Moyes is facing increasing pressure on his position as West Ham fight for their Premier League survival, even despite heavy squad investment since the summer of 2022.
West Ham currently languish in the relegation zone, having lost 13 games this season whilst scoring just 19 goals in that time.
Injuries have played a major toll on Moyes’ success but supporters and the board arguably expected far more after last season’s real promise.
The Latest: West Ham approach Benitez?
According to 6 foot 2.co.uk news editor Sean Whetstone, as also seen on Claret and Hugh, West Ham have in fact approached Benitez over the role amid reports he’s open to joining.
However, contrary to those claims, it appears West Ham have reached an impasse over the Spaniard after approaching him.
Whetstone explained via Twitter:
“He [Benitez] turned down an approach by West Ham through intermediaries about his short term availability, he is only interested in a long term contract I am told.”
The Verdict: Blow for West Ham?
If the Hammers hierarchy do decide to part company with Moyes so late in the season, it’s a blow for West Ham that Benitez isn’t open to joining on a short-term deal.
The decorated managerial veteran has won trophies galore in his time at the top level, including a Europa League triumph at Chelsea and Champions League honour with Liverpool (Transfermarkt).
Of course, his latest stint at Everton was one to forget, but every other job he has undertaken in England can arguably be deemed a success in some way.
Benitez often overachieved with Newcastle on a shoe-string budget and the 62-year-old would have arguably been a real stand-out candidate for the West Ham helm.
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