West Ham United open their 2025/26 Premier League season away at promoted Sunderland on Saturday, aiming to set a positive tone at the Stadium of Light.
After finishing 14th last term, Graham Potter’s team integrates new signings with a focus on improvement, facing a Sunderland side full of momentum. This game tests West Ham’s early progress against an opponent eager to impress.
West Ham XI vs Sunderland – Predicted lineup and team news
West Ham United team news
Mads Hermansen could start in goal, with Kyle Walker-Peters, Callum Wilson, and El Hadji Malick Diouf also in line for debuts. Jean-Clair Todibo’s loan has become permanent to add defensive strength.
An inside look at our preparations for the 2025/26 campaign 🎞️
— West Ham United (@WestHam) August 14, 2025
Jarrod Bowen captains the side with Lucas Paqueta in attack, backed by Tomas Soucek and James Ward-Prowse. Crysencio Summerville (hamstring) and George Earthy (ankle) are out, but Freddie Potts could play after his Portsmouth loan. Potter emphasises steady improvements to fix last season’s issues.
The club confirmed this week that Michail Antonio will not extend as a first-team player after his contract expired, following a near-fatal car crash in December that sidelined him since, though talks continue for a potential non-playing role.
West Ham United predicted lineup
West Ham United predicted XI: Hermansen; Todibo, Kilman, Aguerd; Walker-Peters, Soucek, Ward-Prowse, Diouf; Bowen, Paqueta; Wilson.
When is Sunderland vs West Ham United?
West Ham United face Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, 16th August 2025. Kick-off is 3pm BST.
How to watch Sunderland vs West Ham United?
The 3pm blackout precludes live UK TV, but highlights feature on BBC’s Match of the Day from 10:20pm BST. Club channels may offer audio or delayed streams.
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