7M - Match Preview: West Ham United vs Manchester City prediction team news lineups

Match preview

West Ham United prepare to host the defending champions in what promises to be a testing encounter at the London Stadium. The Hammers have shown flashes of brilliance under Julen Lopetegui but have struggled for consistency against the league elite. Facing a Manchester City side that is currently in a relentless rhythm requires a near perfect defensive performance. West Ham will look to capitalize on their home support and use the pace of their wingers to exploit any gaps left by the visitors expansive playing style. While they are considered the underdogs for this fixture the Hammers have a history of making life difficult for City in East London and will be desperate to secure a positive result to aid their push for a top half finish.

Manchester City news

Manchester City arrive in the capital as the favorites to claim all three points as they continue their pursuit of another Premier League title. Pep Guardiolas side has been in imperious form showing their trademark ability to dominate possession and wear down opponents through patient buildup play. Following a successful run in European competition the Citizens are now fully focused on maintaining their lead at the top of the domestic standings. City have one of the best away records in the division and their squad depth allows them to rotate without a significant drop in quality. The primary objective for the visitors will be to secure an early goal to dampen the atmosphere and force West Ham to abandon their defensive shape.

West Ham news

West Ham are boosted by the return of several first team players who missed the previous outing due to minor knocks. Jarrod Bowen is expected to lead the attack while the midfield will rely on the physical presence of Edson Alvarez to disrupt Citys flow. On the other hand Manchester City are monitoring the fitness of Kevin De Bruyne who is nursing a slight hamstring issue. Erling Haaland is set to spearhead the frontline with Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva providing the creative spark from the wider areas. Rodri remains the indispensable anchor in the center of the park ensuring that the visitors maintain control over the tempo of the game throughout the ninety minutes.

West Ham United possible starting lineup

Areola; Coufal, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson; Alvarez, Soucek; Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus; Antonio

Manchester City possible starting lineup

Ederson; Walker, Dias, Akanji, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Silva, De Bruyne, Foden; Haaland

Match prediction

West Ham United 1-3 Manchester City. Although West Ham possess the offensive weapons to trouble Citys backline the champions technical superiority and clinical finishing are likely to be the deciding factors. Manchester City have a habit of finding an extra gear in the second half of matches and their ability to sustain pressure should eventually overwhelm the Hammers resistance. A convincing away win for Guardiola and his players remains the most probable outcome as they continue their march toward more silverware.