West Ham United manager Nuno Espírito Santo has announced his starting XI for the final pre-season friendly against 1. FC Magdeburg, as the Hammers prepare for the upcoming 2026/27 Premier League campaign. The match, set for Saturday at the Avnet Arena in Magdeburg, Germany, will see the Hammers take on a 2. Bundesliga side known for their strong home support.
What is the starting lineup?
Nuno has made just one change from the team that faced Rangers last weekend, with Lewis Orford replacing James Ward-Prowse in midfield. The Hammers will line up with Mads Hermansen in goal, protected by a back four of Kyle Walker-Peters, Dinos Mavropanos, Maximilian Kilman, and Ollie Scarles. In midfield, Orford will join Keiber Lamadrid and Mohamadou Kanté, while Jarrod Bowen, Taty Castellanos, and Pablo Felipe lead the attack.
Why is this match important?
This fixture marks West Ham United's final warm-up before the Premier League season kicks off. The Hammers finished 17th in the 2025 table with 33 points, scoring 40 goals and conceding 57. A strong performance here could set the tone for a more competitive campaign ahead.
Who are the key players to watch?
Captain Jarrod Bowen will be a focal point, while Taty Castellanos and Pablo Felipe will look to build on their pre-season form. Youngster Lewis Orford, who has impressed in the academy, gets another chance to shine in midfield. On the Magdeburg side, Poland international Mateusz Żukowski, who scored 17 goals last season, will be a threat up front.
What are the tactical considerations?
Nuno's side will likely focus on defensive solidity, with Mavropanos and Kilman forming a strong central partnership. The midfield trio of Orford, Lamadrid, and Kanté will need to control the tempo, while the attacking trio of Bowen, Castellanos, and Felipe will look to exploit spaces behind Magdeburg's defense.
