LONDON – The initial matches of a Premier League season usually don’t evoke immediate despair, but witnessing West Ham in action makes it hard not to expect the worst. Fans at the London Stadium were grim, knowing their team’s home opener was supposed to inspire hope, especially after a heavy defeat to Sunderland.

Pessimism soon proved justified. West Ham surged ahead with a powerful sixth-minute goal from Lucas Paqueta, yet their defense crumbled as Chelsea swiftly took control, ultimately winning 5-1. This performance raises urgent questions about West Ham’s resilience.

Recent history shows that West Ham, a club with survival instincts, needs to be careful to avoid slipping into relegation. Their defense resembled that of a team unfamiliar with each other. During the game, Chelsea players found ample space, especially Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, who exchanged numerous passes without any West Ham player attempting to pressure them.

Graham Potter must grapple with the weight of these inadequacies, reflecting on roster decisions and their impact on team spirit and strategic structure. The match emphasized West Ham’s defensive frailty, suggesting deeper issues that demand urgent attention.