West Ham ready for Chelsea derby

Captain Jarrod Bowen thanks the Claret and Blue Army as West Ham prepare for their home league opener against Chelsea at the London Stadium.

Bowen thanks West Ham fans ahead of season start

Captain Jarrod Bowen has thanked the Claret and Blue Army ahead of West Ham United's 2025/26 Premier League home opener against Chelsea at the London Stadium. The Friday night derby will be played in front of a sold out crowd of 62,500, as Bowen prepares to lead the Hammers onto the pitch. "As West Ham United captain, I am proud to wear the armband and lead your Club, and I’ll be giving everything again this season to have a successful one, on and off the pitch," he said. Bowen also spoke about his ties to the club, noting, "As you might know, I married into a big West Ham family in the summer and my wife, her Dad and all the Dyers remind me every day what a big honour and responsibility I have got."

Bowen’s message centers on leadership and the influence of a full-throated home crowd. When a captain speaks with both resolve and a sense of belonging, it can mobilize teammates and fans alike, especially in a high-stakes derby. The sold out London Stadium signals strong fan optimism for a rebound season, and Bowen’s words aim to convert support into early-season momentum. This moment also positions him as more than a player–he sits at the heart of West Ham’s identity during a busy opening stretch.

Highlights

West Ham faces a season where leadership and fan energy will be tested from match one