West Bromwich Albion have begun their search for a new head coach after parting ways with Ryan Mason, with former Manchester United coach Eric Ramsay emerging as a potential candidate.
Mason's Departure Triggers Search
The Baggies decided to dismiss Ryan Mason following their recent 2-1 defeat away to Leicester City. Mason, the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder, had only been appointed last summer, signing a three-year contract that was set to run until 2028. However, his tenure proved unsuccessful, with the team struggling for form and identity.
West Brom currently find themselves in a precarious 18th position in the Championship table after 26 games. They are just seven points above the relegation zone, prompting the club's hierarchy to act. The Midlands side face Swansea City in the FA Cup this weekend before a crucial league fixture against Middlesbrough on 16th January.
Eric Ramsay: The Leading Contender
According to reports, the club is 'interested' in Minnesota United's manager, Eric Ramsay. The 34-year-old, who was born in Shrewsbury, has built a strong reputation since moving to Major League Soccer in February 2024.
Ramsay boasts an impressive coaching CV for his age, having worked at Chelsea and Manchester United, where he became the club's assistant manager at just 29. He also spent time with the Wales national team before his transatlantic move.
In the United States, he has won 42% of his matches in charge of Minnesota United. His contract at Allianz Field runs until the end of the 2027 MLS campaign, meaning any move would require negotiation.
Ramsay's Philosophy and Fit for West Brom
Ramsay has spoken publicly about his desire to build a distinct and difficult-to-play-against team, values that would likely appeal to the West Brom board. After the 2025 season, he reflected on creating a side with a clear identity, stating his aim was to be "elite in several key components of the game."
Like Mason, Ramsay represents a young and progressive appointment, but one with a broader range of elite-level coaching experience. The challenge for West Brom is whether he can translate his promising work in MLS to the intense pressure of a Championship relegation battle.
The club's immediate focus is on the FA Cup, but the decision on Mason's permanent successor is now their most pressing off-field concern as they fight to secure their second-tier status.
