West Ham head coach Julen Lopetegui returns to Spain to attend funeral of his father | OneFootball

Hammers say Lopetegui’s coaching team will oversee training during while he is away

West Ham have confirmed Julen Lopetegui has returned to Spain to attend the funeral of his father.

Lopetegui’s father Jose passed away on Tuesday at the age of 94.

Lopetegui travelled to Spain for three days during the November international break to spend time with his father.

West Ham say Lopetegui’s coaching team will oversee training while he is away.

The Hammers play Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday.

A West Ham spokesperson: “West Ham United can confirm head coach Julen Lopetegui has returned to Spain to attend the funeral of his father, José, who sadly passed away on Tuesday at the age of 94.

“The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at the club are with Julen, his family and friends, and we kindly ask that their privacy is respected at this time.

“Lopetegui’s coaching team will oversee training during this period.

‘The club will be making no further comment at this time.”

Lopetegui’s West Ham drew 1-1 at Bournemouth on Monday night.

The Hammers are 14th in the Premier League with 19 points from their opening 16 games under Lopetegui, who took over from David Moyes at the London Stadium in the summer.