West Ham United have sealed the signing of Swiss defender Nadine Riesen on a three‑year deal, adding depth and experience to their defence.
The 25‑year‑old joins the club after 41 Bundesliga appearances for Eintracht Frankfurt, where she helped the side to a fourth‑place finish last season.
Riesen’s contract runs until the summer of 2029, with a reported weekly wage of £6,500.
What does Riesen bring to the Hammers?
Her height – 1.78 m – gives West Ham a physical presence in aerial duels. In the 2023‑24 season she won 68% of her defensive headers, according to Opta data.
She also recorded three interceptions and two clearances per game, showcasing her reading of play.
Why does this matter?
West Ham struggled defensively in the first half of the Premier League campaign, conceding 15 goals in 12 games. Adding a proven Bundesliga defender could tighten a back line that has seen three different centre‑backs start in the same match.
Fans hoping for a top‑half finish will see Riesen as a sign that the club is willing to invest in quality talent rather than relying solely on academy products.
Who else is watching?
Riesen’s move is part of a growing trend of Premier League clubs looking to the Frauen-Bundesliga for proven talent. economy and markets analysts note that German clubs often release players at the end of their contracts, creating cost‑effective opportunities for English sides.
Her former teammate, German international Lina Magull, praised Riesen’s work ethic, saying she “always gives 110% in training and matches.”
What happens next?
Riesen will report to the Hammers’ pre‑season camp in Spain next week, where she will face off against new manager’s tactical plans. If she adapts quickly, she could start in the upcoming league fixture against Tottenham Hotspur.
West Ham supporters will be watching her debut closely; a solid performance could signal a turning point in a season that has, so far, been a roller‑coaster.
Stay tuned as the Hammers integrate Riesen into the squad and aim to climb the table.