Julen Lopetegui, the former manager of Wolves, has reportedly created a four-man shortlist of Spanish-based players that he wants to sign when he gets a Premier League job. Lopetegui, 57, left his position at Wolves in August after realizing that he would not be given sufficient backing in the transfer market. However, he is unwilling to take a new job until he knows that there is enough cash available to sign the players he wants.
Rumors suggest that Lopetegui has been earmarked as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. The Red Devils’ chiefs were impressed by his work at Wolves last season, and his experience of winning the Europa League with Sevilla has earned him European pedigree. This sets him apart from other contenders for the position, such as Graham Potter or Roberto de Zerbi. In addition, Lopetegui’s command of the English language has given him an advantage over Zinedine Zidane.
Lopetegui has expressed his desire to continue his career in England, stating in an interview with Sky Sports that he has turned down job offers from overseas because he wants to stay in England. He described English football culture as “special” and the Premier League as the best and most competitive league in the world. He also mentioned that he wants to work on a project where he can put his stamp on it and improve the performance of the whole club.
According to Lopetegui, accepting a challenge is not just about the players and the style of play; it also involves understanding the club’s culture and history. He believes that this kind of challenge is what he is ready for and that achieving each aim of the club is important to him.
It remains to be seen which Premier League club will give Lopetegui the opportunity to put his plans into action and sign the Spanish-based players on his shortlist. For now, Lopetegui is patiently waiting for the right opportunity to arise, one that will provide him with the financial backing and resources he needs to succeed. As a manager with a proven track record and a clear vision for success, it is only a matter of time before he finds himself back in the Premier League and making his mark on English football.