West Ham vs. Manchester City: Preview

Reigning champions Manchester City will aim for their third consecutive win to start the Premier League season as they visit the London Stadium to face West Ham United on Saturday afternoon.

Following a scoreless first half, Tomas Soucek opened the scoring in the 67th minute, and captain Jarrod Bowen added a second five minutes later. This match also marked West Ham’s first Premier League clean sheet since January, ending a 19-game streak without a shutout.

West Ham progressed to the third round of the EFL Cup with a narrow 1-0 victory over Bournemouth on Wednesday night. However, their late winner, which came from Mohammed Kudus’s shot that deflected off Bowen’s arm, might have been disallowed if VAR had been in use.

Photo byJonny GiosonUnsplash

West Ham vs. Manchester City: Team Form & Head-to-Head

Manchester City has defeated West Ham in their last two seasons and secured a 3-1 victory the last time they met in the capital almost a year ago. After beginning his tenure as West Ham manager with a 2-1 Premier League loss to Aston Villa, Julen Lopetegui celebrated his first win last weekend as his revamped West Ham team defeated Crystal Palace 2-0.

West Ham will face a challenging home match against Manchester City before taking on Fulham on September 14. The Hammers have struggled against City, failing to win any of their last 17 Premier League encounters since a 2-1 victory in September 2015.

Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, has had a strong start to the season, winning both of their opening Premier League matches and claiming the Community Shield. They have scored six goals and conceded just one so far. Erling Haaland has been a standout performer, scoring four goals, including a hat-trick in a 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town last weekend. Manchester City’s impressive form extends to their away record against West Ham, with just one loss in their last 14 league visits and none in their last nine since a 2-1 defeat at Upton Park in October 2014.

Team News

West Ham manager Lopetegui has noted that left-back Aaron Cresswell is dealing with a hamstring injury and will need a scan to assess its severity. Edson Alvarez, who recently returned from a hamstring injury, may keep his place in midfield, while Tomas Soucek, Guido Rodriguez, and James Ward-Prowse will also compete for starting spots.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who shone as a left-back against Bournemouth, might move to his preferred right-back role with Emerson Palmieri expected to start. Kudus, Lucas Paqueta, and potentially Michail Antonio might feature in the attacking lineup against Manchester City.

Manchester City has injury concerns of their own, with Oscar Bobb sidelined for several months after leg surgery. Rodri is a fitness doubt but has resumed training and could make an appearance. Phil Foden, who missed the Ipswich game due to illness, and Mateo Kovacic, who picked up a knock, are expected to be available.

Kyle Walker and John Stones are pushing for starting roles, but Guardiola might stick with his current defensive lineup of Rico Lewis, Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol. Savinho and Jeremy Doku may retain their places in the attack ahead of Jack Grealish.

West Ham vs. Manchester City: Probable Starting XI

West Ham: Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Todibo, Kilman, Emerson; Alvarez, Soucek; Bowen, Paqueta, Kudus; Antonio

Manchester City: Ederson; Lewis, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Kovacic, Bernardo; Savinho, De Bruyne, Doku; Haaland

For More Great Content

Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all.

Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.

Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover Fantasy Sports, too!

Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to Respect The Hustle! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.

Article originally written by Jaineel Kariya