West Ham United will cause Manchester City “problems” on Saturday 31 August but the best they can hope for is a draw, according to Paul Merson.
The Sky Sports pundit believes that the Premier League champions will claim all three points against the Hammers in East London, predicting that Pep Guardiola’s side will win 2-0.
Although Merson expects City to come away from the London Stadium unscathed, he admits he wouldn’t be completely surprised if the Irons somehow managed to steal a point. Writing for Sportskeeda on Friday (30 August) Merson said: “This is a difficult game for Manchester City. “West Ham have enough talent while going forward and I think they will cause problems to the reigning champions. If City are forced to play without Rodri again, this can prove to be a tough test.
Irrespective of whether Jeremy Doku or Savinho plays for City, Aaron Wan-Bissaka will have an exciting battle to deal with in the wide areas – definitely something to keep an eye on. Ilkay Gundogan is now back at City and it’s a great signing in my opinion.
In the middle of the pitch, Gundogan and Rodri seem like a cheat code. Erling Haaland, too, was excellent against Ipswich last week; the only issue for City is if he gets hurt.
It’s true that they could rely on false-nine then. However, that system is not going to be successful for them over an extended run of games. I’m backing City to win, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this ends in a draw.”
West Ham face Manchester City at the London Stadium
In his first season as West Ham’s manager, Julen Lopetegui appears to be up against it again. These fixtures aren’t much harder than the ones the former Real Madrid manager has faced thus far in his tenure. The Hammers have made significant spending in an attempt to restructure the team this summer, and although it will take some time for so many new players to click, fans should anticipate seeing changes on the field right away.
A tie with the Champions would be a significant declaration of intent. It would demonstrate that this revamped squad is prepared to contend for European spots once more as opposed to settling for a midtable result. The Hammers now have the talent to compete with City, but it won’t be simple and every player will need to be at the top of their game.
A draw with the Champions would represent a major statement of intent. It would show that this restructured team is ready to compete for European slots once more rather than just finish in the middle of the league. Now that they have the talent, the Hammers can compete with City, but it won’t be easy and every player will need to be performing at the highest level.
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