Will West Ham's New Manager Guarino Transform the Team?

West Ham United is reportedly set to appoint Rita Guarino as the new manager of their women's team following the dismissal of Rehanne Skinner. Guarino, a former player with 99 caps for Italy, has not managed outside Italy before, making this a notable move for the club as they search for a turnaround in their Women's Super League (WSL) fortunes.

Last updated: 14 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

After a disappointing start to the season, West Ham has chosen to replace Rehanne Skinner, who managed the team to just one win in their first 11 matches in the WSL. Rita Guarino's appointment signifies a new direction for the team, aiming to improve their position in the league. As of now, the team sits second bottom, only two points clear of Liverpool, which has raised concerns about relegation. Guarino's prior experience includes leading Juventus to four consecutive Serie A titles and managing Inter Milan, highlighting her credentials despite her lack of experience in the UK.

Key takeaways

Rita Guarino is set to be appointed as West Ham's women's team manager.
She has no prior managerial experience outside of Italy.
Guarino previously led Juventus to four Serie A titles.
West Ham's women's team is currently struggling in the WSL, sitting second bottom.
One of Guarino's immediate challenges will be the January transfer window.

Timeline: how we got here

West Ham's decision to part ways with Rehanne Skinner came on 12 October 2023, after a string of poor performances in the league. Guarino's potential appointment has been under consideration since before the winter break, with the club looking for a fresh approach to reverse their fortunes. Prior to her time at Inter Milan, Guarino had a successful spell at Juventus from 2017 to 2021.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Rita Guarino's imminent appointment as West Ham's women's team manager marks a significant change in leadership for the club. Her lack of experience in the UK raises questions about her ability to adapt quickly to the demands of the WSL.

What was already established

Before this announcement, the football community was aware of West Ham's struggles in the WSL under Skinner, with only one win in their last 11 matches. Guarino's success in Italy, particularly with Juventus, has been noted, but her transition to a new football culture remains untested.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For fans and households, Guarino's appointment could revitalise the West Ham women's team, potentially attracting more supporters to matches as they seek to improve their league standing. Increased engagement could also enhance local business sponsorships related to the club.

Businesses and jobs

The decision to hire Guarino is likely to affect various stakeholders, including current players and coaching staff. Her management style and decisions in the January transfer window could lead to changes within the squad, potentially impacting job security for existing staff.

Policy and regulation

As Guarino settles in, her approach to team management will be scrutinised in the context of the FA's policies on women's football. The club may also face increased media attention as they navigate the challenges of the WSL.

Numbers that matter

1 win in 11 matches for West Ham so far this WSL season.
2 points above Liverpool, who are currently at the bottom of the table.
4 consecutive Serie A titles won by Guarino during her tenure at Juventus.
99 caps earned by Guarino as a player for the Italian national team.

Definitions and jargon buster

WSL: Women's Super League, the top tier of women's football in England.
Serie A: The top professional football league in Italy.
Caps: Appearances made by a player for their national team.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Guarino will likely focus on assessing the current squad and identifying key areas for improvement ahead of the January transfer window. The immediate goal will be to secure more points to avoid relegation.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As Guarino embeds her philosophy, fans will be looking for signs of tactical shifts and improved performances. Success in the transfer window could also signal the potential for a stronger second half of the season.

Signals to watch

Performance in upcoming matches against direct rivals for relegation.
Activity in the January transfer window, including player signings and departures.
Increased fan engagement and attendance at matches.

Practical guidance

Do

Support the team through attendance and engagement on social media.
Stay updated on player transfers and team news.
Encourage local businesses to support the women’s team.

Don’t

Dismiss Guarino's potential due to her lack of UK experience.
Overlook the importance of fan engagement during this transitional period.
Assume immediate success; changes take time.

Checklist

Follow official club announcements regarding transfers and managerial updates.
Watch upcoming matches to assess team performance.
Engage with community events related to the women's team.
Monitor media coverage of Guarino’s adaptation to the WSL.
Participate in discussions about women's football to foster interest.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Guarino's track record in Italy is impressive, her lack of experience in the English football system raises questions about her ability to navigate the unique challenges of the WSL. The team's current position also adds pressure, as immediate results are expected from any managerial change. The upcoming transfer window will be crucial for shaping the squad, but it remains uncertain how quickly new signings can adapt to the team.

Bottom line

Rita Guarino's appointment as West Ham's women's team manager represents both a risk and an opportunity for the club. Her success in Italy suggests potential, but the adaptation to English football will be key. Fans and stakeholders should watch closely as the club navigates a critical phase in the WSL.

FAQs

What is Rita Guarino's background in football?

Rita Guarino is a former Italian international player with 99 caps. She has managed clubs in Italy, including Juventus and Inter Milan, achieving notable success.

Why was Rehanne Skinner sacked?

Rehanne Skinner was dismissed after a poor run of form, with only one win in 11 matches in the Women's Super League this season.

What challenges will Guarino face at West Ham?

Guarino will need to improve team performance, navigate the January transfer window, and adapt to the competitive environment of the Women's Super League.