West Ham United Women are predicted to finish 11th in the upcoming Women's Super League season. The club has undergone a significant transformation following a 10th-place finish last season, appointing Rita Guarino as manager and making 10 new signings in the summer transfer window.
Rita Guarino took charge of West Ham United Women in December after the dismissal of Rehanne Skinner. Guarino, who previously managed in Italy, guided the team to 14 points from her 11 Women's Super League games in charge last season. Her appointment marks a new direction for the club as they prepare for the 2026-27 campaign. The club's activity in the transfer market, which included spending £97,000 on agents' fees in the year to February 2026, reflects a commitment to supporting her vision.
The club's recruitment drive has brought in a host of new talent. The signings include forward Kelly Gago, who scored 10 goals in 30 games for Everton, and defender Laia Codina. Other arrivals are Ebony Salmon, Estelle Cascarino, Nadine Riesen, Laia Codina, Sienna Wareing, and Niamh Peacock. Gago highlighted the appeal of the move, stating, "The family feel of the club" was a major factor. Defender Codina's simple reaction to joining was a succinct, "Wow." Fans can view the full updated roster on the club's squad page.
Several key departures have also shaped the squad. Shekiera Martinez left for Tottenham, Katrina Gorry took a break from football, and Shelina Zadorsky moved to AFC Toronto. Among the returning players, Viviane Asseyi has signed a new contract, providing experience in attack. Youngster Inès Belloumou, who played 18 times for West Ham last season and represented Algeria at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, will be looking for more opportunities. The team continues to play its home games at Victoria Road stadium, having not used the main stadium since 2019.
The prediction of an 11th-place finish sets a clear challenge for Guarino and her rebuilt squad. The manager's initial 11-game spell provided a foundation, but integrating so many new players will be her immediate task. The blend of experienced signings like Gago and promising talents must gel quickly to improve on last season's position. Supporters can track the team's progress throughout the season by checking the official standings. The opening fixtures of the WSL season will provide the first test for this new-look West Ham side, with the full schedule available on the fixtures page. Viviane Asseyi's new contract runs for the next two seasons.
