Former Arsenal star and current pundit Paul Merson has cast doubt on West Ham United’s ability to break their dismal home losing streak against Manchester City. The Hammers have won just two of their last 15 home meetings against City, and Merson believes that trend will continue.

“I don’t think West Ham can do it,” Merson said. “They’ve got a poor record against City, and I don’t see that changing today. City are a top-class team, and they’ll have too much for West Ham.”

Merson’s prediction comes despite West Ham’s improved form under new manager Julen Lopetegui. The Hammers secured a 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace in their last Premier League match, ending a 19-game wait for a clean sheet.

However, Merson remains unconvinced. “West Ham may have won their last match, but City are a different proposition altogether,” he said. “They’ve got the quality and depth to hurt any team, and I think they’ll be too strong for West Ham.”

Merson also pointed to City’s dominance in recent encounters between the two teams. “City have won nine of the last 10 meetings against West Ham, and I don’t see that changing today,” he said. “They’ve got a strong squad and a top-class manager, and I think they’ll come out on top.”

West Ham will be without Aaron Cresswell due to injury, while Edson Alvarez is in contention to start in midfield after recovering from injury. However, Merson believes that even with a full-strength team, West Ham would struggle to beat City.

“It’s not just about the players West Ham have available,” Merson said. “It’s about the mentality and the confidence. City have a winning mentality, and they know how to get the job done. West Ham, on the other hand, have struggled against the top teams, and I think that will continue today.”