The Guardian‘s prediction of a ninth-place finish for West Ham United is a tempered expectation given the club’s significant summer investment. While it’s understandable to anticipate a period of adjustment as the new signings integrate into the team, the Hammers’ potential is undeniable.
The appointment of Julen Lopetegui and the influx of talent suggest a club with lofty ambitions. The likes of Max Kilman, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Niclas Füllkrug represent a significant upgrade on the previous squad.
However, the Premier League is notoriously competitive, and it will take time for the new-look West Ham side to find its rhythm. The pressure to deliver results will be intensified by the club’s increased spending.
Ultimately, the season will be a learning curve for both players and manager. While a ninth-place finish might be a realistic outcome, surpassing this target and securing European qualification should be the ultimate goal.
I’d rather people underestimate us, then give us loads of hype a pressure, always best to go under the radar and surprise people.
I think we’ll be somewhere between 6th and 9th depending how quickly the new players and system gels. But above Man Utd regardless.
Barely a ball kicked, just Fulham and Manure. It’s hard enough getting weekly picks mid-season correct. They might be right or possibly wrong. Maybe they’re just selling advertising space.
We have a new manager who likes to play out from the back. A significant change of style & a practice I always feel is fraught with danger. How the team copes with that and the more possession based approach that Lopetegui wants will shape our season. Give it time.
I reckon all hammers fans are eagerly waiting for start of season not really knowing where it’ll take us exciting times
Got to agree with that. With the squad we now have and hopefully none or few injuries in the second half of the season I think the only way will be up. Enjoy the season.
Looking forward to this season for the 1st time in years, was on the verge of giving up my season ticket. I don’t care where we finish so long as it’s not in bottom 3. Do care about the fact we have a squad capable of playing multiple systems which was never happening under Moyes, Top 3 aside I fear no other team and I’m certain there are at least 10 teams significantly inferior. So 4-10 all are possible despite the muppets like Lineker, Murphy,Shearer Keys and all the careful what you wish for brigade **** them all COYIs
From what I have seen and heard the average expected position for West Ham is between 8th and 10th, which is largely based on the manager and squad familiarising themselves with each other and new tactics, while still being competitive in an unforgiving Premiership. Personally, with no real fear of relegation, I would accept a mid table position, whilst always hoping for a European spot, as long as we play attractive football and have decent cup runs. For me, next season is when it really has to happen for this squad. Furthermore, by then the outcome of the Paqueta saga will be known
6th place has to be the minimum target…… 9th is derisory. You don’t upgrade your squad not to considerably improve on last season.
Challenging for the Champions League is my prediction.
Go for it…..David Moyes’s negative version of West Ham is over!!