Rita Guarino has been appointed as the new head coach of West Ham United's women's team, marking her first management position outside of her native Italy. The experienced Italian manager has signed an 18-month contract with the Hammers. The announcement follows the departure of Rehanne Skinner on Thursday.

Guarino brings a wealth of experience to West Ham, having previously coached Italy's U17 team, Inter Milan, and Juventus. During her four-year tenure with Juventus, she led the team to significant success, securing four Serie A titles, two Supercoppa titles, and one Coppa Italia. As a player, the 54-year-old earned 99 caps as a striker for Italy and played for several clubs, including Juventus, Torino, Reggiana, Fiammamonza, Torres, and Lazio.

"I'm so happy to be joining West Ham United," Guarino told West Ham TV. "It is a club with a big history and strong values that align with my own. I've spoken with the board and I'm really excited by the project here. There is a lot of talent and experience in the team, and I want to support the girls to develop as individuals but also as a collective."

Guarino aims to build a team that is "organized, aggressive with the ball, and tries to recognize and use space". She emphasizes the importance of "the mentality of the team – the togetherness and hard work".

West Ham's appointment of Guarino is considered a bold move, as she is relatively unknown in England. Her immediate priority will be navigating the January transfer window to strengthen the squad. Currently, West Ham is second-bottom in the WSL table, just two points above Liverpool. After winning just one WSL game in the first half of the campaign, West Ham are hoping for a much better second-half of the season under Guarino.

Guarino will be assisted by Steve Kirby, who was also Skinner's assistant. The club will announce further additions to her coaching staff in due course. Guarino's first match in charge will be on Sunday, January 11, against defending champions Chelsea in the Barclays Women's Super League.

Everyone at West Ham United welcomes Rita to the Club and wishes her every success for her career in Claret and Blue.