The Hammers had yet another challenging season in 2025–2026. They avoided relegation with a 10th-place finish, but it also demonstrated how difficult it is now for teams outside the WSL's wealthy elite to advance significantly. West Ham is still looking for the recipe that would make them a reliable competitor, while rivals like Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City continue to make significant investments.
That doesn't mean there haven't been positives. One of the standout stories of the season was Shekiera Martinez. Her goals gave supporters something to cheer about during a campaign that often felt frustrating, and she has quickly become one of the most important players in the squad. The next step is building a team around that attacking threat and finding more consistency across the pitch.
The biggest talking point on the football side has been the change in management. After Rehanne Skinner left her role in December, the club moved quickly to bring in Rita Guarino. The Italian arrives with an impressive reputation and plenty of experience, and her appointment feels like a fresh start. Supporters will be hoping that a full pre-season under Guarino can help establish a clearer identity and style of play.
Away from the pitch, there has been plenty happening around the wider club. Headlines involving former co-chairman David Sullivan have created unwanted attention, while changes at ownership level could have a major impact on the future direction of West Ham as a whole. For many fans, the big question is whether those changes will eventually lead to greater investment in the women's side.
One area where the club deserves credit is its commitment to developing young players. With the financial power of the top clubs making it increasingly difficult to compete in the transfer market, producing talent through the academy could prove vital. Giving young players opportunities isn't just good for the future — it may be the most realistic way for West Ham to grow.
The feeling around the club right now is one of cautious optimism. West Ham aren't where they want to be, but there are signs that things are moving in the right direction. A new manager, promising young talent and key players beginning to make their mark all offer reasons for supporters to feel encouraged.
Nobody is expecting a title challenge overnight. The reality is that progress will probably be measured in smaller steps: improving league position, becoming harder to beat and developing a style of football that fans can believe in.
The 2026/27 season feels like an important one. It won't answer every question surrounding West Ham Women, but it could give us a much clearer idea of where this team is heading and whether the foundations being put in place now can eventually turn the club into a genuine force in the WSL.
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