by Staff Writer
Saturday, 31st January 2026
West Ham United Women have completed the signing of Norwegian international Ylinn Tennebo, bringing the talented full-back to the Women’s Super League on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
The 26-year-old joins The Irons from Valerenga, where she enjoyed a successful spell in Norway’s top flight before making the step into English football.
Tennebo began her career with local sides Tornado Maloy and Kaupanger, before signing her first professional deal with Avaldsnes in 2019. She moved on to Valerenga in late 2020, where she became a mainstay in the team over the past six seasons.
With Valerenga, she lifted back-to-back Toppserien titles in 2023 and 2024 and also won the Norwegian Women’s Cup in 2021 and 2024, as well as gaining valuable experience in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Now plying her trade in England, Tennebo will wear the No. 15 shirt for West Ham as she looks to make her mark in one of the most competitive leagues in women’s football.
On completing her move, Tennebø spoke with enthusiasm about the next stage of her career.
“It feels amazing to be joining West Ham United," she said. "It’s a really special moment for me and my family as my grandfather, who sadly passed away in 2008, was a big West Ham fan. I wish he could be here to see this.
"I can’t wait to play in the Women’s Super League. I’ve won a lot in my career so far and I hope I can bring my winning mentality to the team. I will give everything for the club and I’m so excited to get started.”
Head coach Rita Guarino welcomed Tennebo to east London, highlighting the qualities she believes the Norwegian will add to the squad. “I’m delighted to welcome Ylinn to West Ham United," she added.
"Ylinn is a versatile full-back with a fantastic work ethic and technical ability. She has been a consistent performer for her previous club in Norway and in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. I’m sure her experience will give her a solid foundation to excel in the Women’s Super League.”
As West Ham United Women continue to build under Rita Guarino, the Norwegian defender’s arrival represents another statement of intent, with both club and player aligned in their ambition to push forward in the Women’s Super League.
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