West Ham Women kick off their 2025/26 WSL campaign this weekend with a London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. Hammers boss Rehanne Skinner is eager to see her side start the season as they mean to go on.

The Hammers go into this weekend’s meeting between the two sides off the back of two victories over their London rivals last season. Rehanne Skinner’s side claimed wins over Spurs in both the League Cup and the WSL. West Ham will be hoping to carry that momentum into the new campaign and start the season on a high.

West Ham Women have added depth to their squad with five new additions this summer. Jess Ziu has joined Bristol City on loan for the season to get some game time as she continues her recovery from a second ACL injury, Hammers boss Skinner was full of praise for the work ethic Ziu has shown during the process.

“The attitude Jess Ziu has shown has been fantastic,” said Skinner. She added “The loan (to Bristol City) is to support the end stage with where she needs to be with minutes. She understands what it’s going to take and she wants to be back in that position.”

Tottenham have a new manager in Martin Ho, in her press conference earlier this week, Rehanne Skinner discussed how she expects to see traits from his previous sides in how Spurs set up.

“Whenever you get a new manager, there’s a new playing style that goes in. There’s trends (in Ho’s side’s playing style) from previous clubs you pick up, so you can see what the intent is going to be.” said the Hammers boss

While aware of the challenge Spurs present, Skinner emphasised that the Hammers are relishing Sunday’s clash. “Whenever we play Tottenham, it’s always going to be a battle. It’s one we’re looking forward to.”

Looking ahead to the season, Skinner is focused on the Hammers building consistency and competing higher up the WSL table. “If we’re able to be more consistent this season, the points will come off the back of that and we should be in a position to push a bit higher in the table.” said Skinner.