West Ham United Women have made several key signings ahead of the 2026/27 Women's Super League season, with a focus on improving the overall quality of the team. The club has recruited players from Arsenal, Juventus, OL Lyonnes, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Fleury, who will play alongside experienced WSL performers. The signings appear to have a clear purpose, with players recruited who fit Rita Guarino's tactical philosophy. Laia Codina, a Spanish international, arrives from Arsenal with a CV that would enhance almost any club in the WSL. She brings the experience of winning league titles, competing in the UEFA Women's Champions League, and representing Spain on the biggest stage in world football. Codina's football education came at Barcelona, where she progressed through one of the finest youth systems in the world. Her move to Arsenal presented a different challenge, with English football being more physical and direct than Spain's Liga F. Codina demonstrated that she could cope with the intensity of the WSL while continuing to develop her distribution and defensive awareness. International football has further enhanced her reputation, with her experience in Spain's World Cup-winning squad in 2023. Codina looks perfectly suited to Rita Guarino's philosophy, with her ability to receive possession under pressure and start attacks from the back. Her passing range allows her to switch play confidently, while her composure ensures West Ham can retain possession instead of surrendering it unnecessarily. Defensively, Codina relies on intelligence and anticipation to read the game. The signings suggest that West Ham are no longer content with simply surviving in the WSL, but are aiming to raise standards and compete with the top teams in the league.