Jamie Carragher predicts scoreline of West Ham United v Manchester City
Jamie Carragher has predicted Manchester City will pick up the three points against West Ham on 31 August.
The former Liverpool defender backs the defending champions to secure a 3-1 victory at the London Stadium. [Sky Sports Super 6]
City have started the seasons strongly with two wins while the Hammers have won one and lost the other and sit in ninth.
West Ham must look to make life difficult for Manchester City
To make things tough for Manchester City today, the Hammers need to employ a disciplined, compact defensive structure that minimizes space, particularly in central areas where City’s playmakers like Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden thrive.
High pressing when City attempts to build from the back could disrupt their rhythm, forcing longer balls which West Ham’s robust defenders might handle better.
Utilising the flanks with quick transitions could bypass City’s strong midfield, with wingers like Jarrod Bowen or Mohammed Kudus looking to exploit any width.
Set pieces, given City’s occasional vulnerability there, could be a route to score.
Moreover, maintaining a high energy level to counter-press immediately after losing possession could prevent City from settling into their passing game.
All these things are easier said than done and Julen Lopetegui knows he’s got a proper task on his hands for this one.
It will be interesting to see how many of the new signings he does end up naming in his starting eleven for this one.
In other West Ham news, a player rejected a move away from the London Stadium on transfer deadline day as a £21m development has emerged.
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