Katie Zelem appointed captain of West Ham United for 2026/27 season

West Ham United has named midfielder Katie Zelem as team captain ahead of the 2026/27 season. The appointment follows Zelem’s permanent move to the club this summer after an initial loan period from London City Lionesses began in January 2026. Zelem brings significant experience to the squad, having previously served as captain at Manchester United and played under current West Ham head coach Rita Guarino at Juventus. Since arriving in East London, the 30-year-old has established herself as a regular starter in the midfield, marking her 150th Women’s Super League appearance in May. She enters the new campaign tasked with leading a reshaped West Ham roster under Guarino’s direction. The club expects her veteran presence, which includes winning domestic titles in England and Italy, to assist the team as they look to build on their performance from last season.

• 5:45 PMYahoo Sports — WSL: Katie Zelem appointed West Ham captain