---
title: "Katie Zelem Set for First Manchester United Return as West Ham Captain"
canonical: "https://readwestham.com/2026/09/26/katie-zelem-west-ham-manchester-united-return/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "West Ham Women's News"
published: "2026-09-26T20:00:00Z"
modified: "2026-09-26T20:00:00Z"
---

# Katie Zelem Set for First Manchester United Return as West Ham Captain

Katie Zelem is set to return to her former Manchester United home for the first time since leaving the club when West Ham United Women visit on Sunday.

The midfielder spent six years with United and captained the club to their first Women’s FA Cup triumph in May 2024.

She will now head back to the Progress With Unity Stadium wearing the West Ham armband.

## Zelem Returning to Familiar Ground

Manchester United’s [official match programme](https://embed-rech-01.dialog.cm/manchester_united/docs/manchester_united_women_v_west_ham_04c552e8a86ab7) notes that Sunday’s fixture is set to be Zelem’s first appearance back in Leigh since her United departure.

After leaving Manchester, the 30-year-old joined Angel City before returning to England with London City Lionesses.

Zelem initially moved to West Ham on loan in January before completing a permanent transfer during the summer.

Rita Guarino then [appointed Zelem West Ham captain](https://www.whufc.com/en/news/katie-zelem-appointed-west-ham-united-womens-team-captain) ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

## Different Role for Former United Captain

Zelem made more than 150 appearances for Manchester United and became one of the most recognisable players from the club’s modern women’s era.

This weekend, however, her focus will be on helping West Ham improve on their three points from the opening three WSL fixtures.

The Hammers head north after keeping their first clean sheet of the season in Wednesday’s goalless Players Cup draw with Tottenham, before winning the resulting shootout.

Zelem converted West Ham’s opening penalty.

Supporters can find the kick-off time and broadcast information in our [Man Utd Women vs West Ham Women TV guide](https://readwestham.com/2026/09/25/man-utd-women-vs-west-ham-women-tv-channel-live-stream/).

Sunday’s WSL fixture kicks off at **1pm BST**.