Spain defender Codina explained that her choice to sign for West Ham came from several factors, yet the role of Italian head coach Guarino, who arrived in December, proved decisive.

"I recall my opening chat with Rita. It happened right at the start. My agent stood beside me and I thought 'wow'," Codina said.

"The sense I gained from that discussion is exactly what I seek ahead; it matches the direction I want next. This stood out as the key driver.

"She spoke openly about everything, including what she expects from me and the squad. Her message was direct. We share that approach.

"Right now I need this clarity, someone open with me who aims to help me develop and improve. I believe Rita holds that goal for me."

West Ham have hovered near the Women's Super League drop zone in recent campaigns, but Codina believes the side is beginning to shift course.

They ended last term in 10th place and displayed early hints of the path they aim to follow under Guarino.

West Ham have faced past criticism over limited spending, yet this summer they backed the squad by adding Codina and striker Ebony Salmon from Villa plus young talents Niamh Peacock and Sienna Wareing.

"I have played at clubs where titles came easily, but I also want to help drive progress within a group and this setup. I feel prepared for this stage," Codina said.

"I can see the vision at West Ham, how it is shaping and what they presented to me. Positive things are happening and they aim to develop further.

"Feeling part of that journey as a player brings real satisfaction."

So what does the project Codina sees at West Ham involve?

Guarino, who guided Juventus to four straight Serie A crowns, replaced Rehanne Skinner at West Ham midway through last season.

She noted in January that improvement would come step by step, though organisation and defensive structure took early priority.

That focus may evolve this term.

"I truly believe fans will feel proud of the West Ham they watch, and that matters most to me," Codina said.

"It will be a clear West Ham identity, a side that plays football and looks to keep the ball often.

"Under Rita the main trait was defensive work, but this season we will look to grow when in possession."

Codina already feels settled after starting pre-season training this week, helped by her continued base in London.

The centre-back arrived in England in 2023 following nine years at Barcelona, rising through the academy to the senior side.

She now aims to give back locally and has already devoted time to West Ham foundation sessions with young players in east London.

"I am enjoying life here. I love discovering new cultures. London holds a special quality. I want to savour it fully," Codina said.

"Football offers this chance and I will make the most of it.

"I tell the children it is not only about winning or reaching the WSL or playing for the national team. It covers many other aspects too."

Codina has been joined in England by Spain colleagues Alexia Putellas, the two-time Ballon d'Or winner, Mapi Leon and Ona Batlle.

"I have spoken with Alexia and met her last week once she arrived. It presents a challenge for her," Codina said.

"I am excited to face her on the pitch; it should be a strong contest. I look forward to seeing them all in matches and away from them.

"I hope it works well for them because next year brings a World Cup and we want to lift it."

Codina featured in the squad that claimed the 2023 World Cup.

The men's side lifted the world title this month, two years after Euro 2024 success.

Spain now hold three of the four major titles across men's and women's football, so what lies behind that run?

"The key is keeping things straightforward. At the World Cup final or the match against France, some said Spain did little that stood out. Yet for me that is the sign," Codina said.

"The toughest element is simplicity. Through movement, control and passing there is always clear purpose."