Season Preview: Will London Stadium affect West Ham's European chances again?

Previous season 

Having struggled in their debut season at the London Stadium, West Ham will be hoping any teething issues have been worked out on the back of an underwhelming campaign. For a brief period, there was talk of the Hammers dropping into the Championship again, though they successfully recovered to stave off relegation and end the season in 11th, one point behind Southampton in 8th. However, the form in the capital has to improve after West Ham took the fifth fewest home points (25) in the Premier League last season. One defeat in the last four at the London Stadium suggests they are improving, but it’s imperative they make their new home as daunting as Upton Park was. 

They’ll have to wait for their first home game of the season, however, as they face Manchester United at Old Trafford in Sunday’s late kick off. 

Transfer summary 

The Hammers have invested somewhat commendably in the off-season, with the capture of youngster Sead Haksabanovic their most recent arrival. Joe Hart is an upgrade between the sticks, Marko Arnautovic and Pablo Zabaleta are Premier League experienced performers and Chicharito is the big name striker supporters have been craving over the last 12 months. Leaving the Hammers has been Havard Nordtveidt, who has returned to Germany, while Ashley Fletcher and Darren Randolph have both moved to Championship side Middlesbrough. Michail Antonio’s new deal, which was announced back in May, is also a huge boost for the side. 

One to watch - Manuel Lanzini 

When Dimitri Payet left in January, Manuel Lanzini became the club’s primary creator and he did not disappoint - he has made the second most successful dribbles (67) in the Premier League in 2017. Off the ball, the Argentine has won possession in the attacking third the second most times this calendar year (17) and there is huge importance placed on keeping the 24-year-old at the club. Now firmly instilled as creator in chief, there is ampled pressure on Lanzini to score the necessary goals and lay on the chances for his attacking teammates. 

Predicted finish - 13th 

There is a strong core to this West Ham side, but it remains to be seen how they react in their second season at the London Stadium. Should they struggle in front of their own fans once more, another mid-table finish is a very real possibility.