West Bromwich Albion appear to be closing in on their next manager, with Ryan Mason and Eric Ramsay emerging as the two frontrunners to replace Tony Mowbray.
Talks with Mason are said to be progressing, but Minnesota United boss Ramsay remains in contention as Albion seek a decisive appointment after a disappointing end to their season.
Mason Leads Race As West Brom Narrow Search
Albion’s search for a new head coach has now stretched to five weeks following Mowbray’s dismissal on Easter Monday. After missing out on the play-offs, the Baggies board made the call to relieve the 61-year-old of his duties just three months into his deal.
Now, with the dust settling on the 2024/25 campaign, attention has turned firmly to the next chapter—and Mason, currently part of Tottenham Hotspur’s backroom staff, is firmly in the frame.
Reports from TalkSPORT suggest the 33-year-old is seriously considering stepping away from his role at Spurs to take on his first permanent managerial position. While his employers have just lifted the Europa League trophy, the prospect of taking charge at a historic club like West Brom could prove too enticing.
Mason previously stepped in as interim manager at Tottenham on two occasions, but has yet to lead a club full-time. His potential move would represent a bold shift for Albion, who have traditionally favoured experienced Championship operators.
Ramsay: An Ambitious Alternative
Should Mason opt to remain in north London, Albion have a credible alternative lined up in Eric Ramsay. The Welshman is currently in charge of Major League Soccer side Minnesota United, where he has won plaudits for an attacking style of football and a notable 4-1 win over Inter Miami.
Ramsay’s coaching CV includes spells with Swansea City, Chelsea’s academy, and senior roles with Manchester United and the Welsh national team. His work in the U.S. has not gone unnoticed, and he is understood to be open to discussions about a return to English football.
Sources close to the club suggest Ramsay has been approached about the role directly, though any move would require him to leave a stable project mid-season in Minnesota.
Writer’s View
This is a pivotal appointment for West Bromwich Albion, and the shortlist reflects two contrasting but exciting visions. Ryan Mason offers Premier League pedigree and a strong media profile, while Eric Ramsay brings continental experience and a background in elite youth development.
Mason may be the more straightforward fit culturally and geographically, but Ramsay arguably boasts a deeper technical résumé. With either option, Albion would be making a progressive appointment that signals a move away from the safety-first selections of recent years.
After two failed play-off pushes in three years, fans are desperate for a change in fortune. Whether it’s the fresh-faced Mason or the tactically astute Ramsay, the next few days could define West Brom’s long-term trajectory.
