West Bromwich Albion’s search for a new manager is intensifying following Carlos Corberán’s departure to Valencia.
The Spaniard, who left The Hawthorns after two years in charge, was named as the La Liga club’s head coach on Christmas Eve. His departure leaves a void that Albion are eager to fill swiftly, with a host of names already linked to the role.
Heitinga and Williams Top the Favourites
Liverpool assistant coach John Heitinga has emerged as the favourite to succeed Corberán, despite joining the Premier League side only last summer. Swansea City manager Luke Williams follows closely in the betting, while other notable names include former West Ham boss David Moyes and ex-Leicester City manager Steve Cooper. Both are reportedly keen on a return to management after recent dismissals.
“No, I wouldn’t have thought so, I’m way too inexperienced for that,” interim boss Chris Brunt said when asked about taking the role full-time. “It’s been nice to come here today as I played so many games here as a player. It’s nice to be on the touchline but I don’t think it’s time for me to do anything like that.”
West Brom have entrusted interim management to Chris Brunt, Damia Abella, and Boaz Myhill while Sporting Director Andrew Nestor leads the search for a permanent replacement. Brunt, a club legend with over 400 appearances, oversaw the team’s 3-0 New Year’s Day win against Preston North End but has ruled himself out of contention for the permanent role.
The current managerial odds reflect a wide pool of contenders, with varying levels of experience. Heitinga is the frontrunner at 5/2, followed by Williams at 3/1. Further down the list are Russell Martin and John Eustace at 10/1, and Steven Schumacher at 12/1. Former Baggies manager Tony Mowbray also features at 14/1, with Moyes and Cooper both priced at 16/1.
What’s Next for West Brom?
Albion are keen to capitalise on the momentum from their dominant victory over Preston. The club faces a critical January transfer window and will hope to appoint a manager capable of guiding them into a stronger position in the Championship. Fans will be eager to see whether the new boss can match or exceed Corberán’s impact, which included steering the team to a solid mid-table finish last season.
Writer’s View
The next West Brom manager will inherit a team with potential but in need of clear direction. While John Heitinga’s credentials make him an exciting candidate, his lack of Championship experience could be a gamble. Conversely, Luke Williams brings proven managerial ability at this level. Albion’s decision must balance ambition with pragmatism to ensure success in the second half of the season.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
