LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 24: Fans arrive at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Manchester City at London Stadium on November 24, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
We have a United fanbase
For the first time in a long time, the Hammers faithful seem happy. They’re not all happy about the stadium, and there are always people moaning about something in any walk of life. However 4 wins on the bounce, a huge turnaround since last season and players still to return from injury has got the fans at the London Stadium smiling and singing.
By contrast, United are in disarray. They may have just fired Mourinho, who was the source of a lot of discontent, but their squad is still not delivering. They have made big signings that are struggling, the fans are arguing about who is in their best squad. Pundits are bickering about the best way for the team to lineup, or who is to blame. Their issues currently extend further than the Special One.
Having a joined fanbase, one that is excited to see each match, is a big factor. They may not win points on their own, but the fans help turn losing positions into draws, or tight matches into winning situations. They keep the side going for those last few minutes. That could be the factor deciding where the teams fit in the final league positions.