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This article is part of Football FanCast's Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba's haircuts to League Two relegation battles...

5-0. Not exactly the kind of start West Ham would have dreamed of when the Premier League fixture list was announced. But whilst such an embarrassing score-line in front of your own fans certainly isn't the best way to go about things, there is certainly no need to despair just yet.

Manchester City are the champions of England for a reason, and possess a squad full of world-class talent. Most sides will inevitably end up on the wrong side of a result, but it is important to ensure that the manner of the loss doesn't call into question the players' attitude. And on Saturday afternoon, it certainly didn't feel like Manuel Pellegrini's side downed tools. They were simply outplayed, and there is no shame in saying that.

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Whilst the second-half felt like a procession following City's quick-fire brace, the opening 45 minutes certainly offered signs of encouragement for Pellegrini. The Hammers looked to press City whenever they had the chance, and barring a couple of sights of goal from the visitors, looked relatively comfortable defensively.

Club-record signing Sebastien Haller used every bit of his 6 foot 3 frame to cause City's defenders problems, and it was no surprise to see the Hammers lift the ball into the air for the Frenchman to hold up. Indeed, for someone of the 25-year-old's height, his delicate first touch was something to behold and the early signs are he could be a fine replacement for Marko Arnautovic.

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Whilst the Hammers looked fairly devoid of creativity going forward, the likes of Felipe Anderson and Manuel Lanzini in particular, simply need to get back to full fitness before they can really shine. Haller's fellow summer signing Pablo Fornals will also offer his impressive technique and control in the middle of the park once Pellegrini eases him into action.

So despite there being a sense of doom and gloom after the opening game of the season, there is no need for West Ham to hit the panic button just yet.

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