West Ham just swiped a top prospect from Manchester United’s youth system. Sienna Wareing, the 2025/26 Academy U21 Player of the Year at United, has signed with the Hammers on a contract that runs through 2029.
Wareing spent seven years at United after joining on trial. She came up through Mill Hill Juniors and had a stint at Blackburn Rovers before landing with the Red Devils. Last season she was a key piece for United’s U21 side that won the Professional Game Academy Plate — she scored the game-winner against Durham in the final and took home Player of the Match.
But here’s where it gets interesting. During the second half of last season, Wareing played six games for Liverpool Feds through a dual registration arrangement. That exposure helped her earn a first call-up to England’s U19 setup, where she played three times during the 2026 UEFA Women’s U19 European Championship qualifiers.
West Ham head coach Rita Guarino didn’t waste any time locking her up. Wareing called the move a dream come true.
“I’m absolutely delighted to sign for West Ham United. The conversations I had with Rita and the staff really made me feel welcome and I can’t wait to carry on my development here,” Wareing said. “Signing my first professional contract is such a proud moment for me and my family. I’m excited to get started when we return for pre-season and to meet all of my new teammates.”
Guarino sees plenty of upside in the 18-year-old midfielder. “Sienna is a player that we believe has a lot of potential. She is a creative midfielder who can make things happen in the final third,” the coach said. “She has recently made her debut for England U19s and I’m sure that she will continue to progress here in east London in a West Ham shirt in years to come.”
For United, losing Wareing stings. She was considered one of their top academy talents and the kind of player clubs build around. But West Ham offered a clear path to first-team minutes, and Wareing took it.
The Hammers finished 10th in the WSL last season with 19 points — a full 21 points behind fourth-placed United. That gap is part of why this signing matters. West Ham needs young, hungry players who can develop into impact performers. Wareing fits that profile.
She’ll join the squad for preseason and slot into a midfield that could use some creativity. If her form from last season carries over, West Ham might have just landed a steal.
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