Defence
Having a solid defence is imperative for any top half team, and the Hammers were definitely looking to improve theirs when they landed Manchester City icon Pablo Zabaleta. The Argentine arrives at London after 9 years of loyal service to the Sky Blues, and should nail down a starting spot even with English youngster Sam Byram providing competition.
On the left side, things are certainly more competitive as Aaron Cresswell goes into his 4th season at the club. But the two times English international will have a hard time getting game time because Arthur Masuaku has had, by far, the most impressive pre-season of the pair.
At centre-back, Winston Reid should be partnering Angelo Ogbonna, at least while José Fonte's form stays at the current level. The Euro 16 winner for Portugal was a surprising signing last January but hasn't impressed so far.