Image source: theguardian.com
West Brom have confirmed the appointment of Eric Ramsay as their new head coach, with the 34-year-old former Manchester United assistant joining the Championship club after successfully guiding Minnesota United to the Major League Soccer play-off semi-finals during his time in charge of the American side.
Eric Ramsay Named West Brom Head Coach Following MLS Success With Minnesota United
Ramsay took charge of Minnesota United in February 2024 in his first senior managerial role after working as an assistant coach alongside Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford. The 34-year-old has also served as an assistant coach for Wales and gained experience at Swansea, Shrewsbury and Chelsea, though his playing career was limited to a brief spell with Welshpool Town and international futsal representation for Wales.
The appointment was confirmed hours after West Brom defeated Swansea in a penalty shootout to reach the fourth round of the FA Cup. James Morrison had taken temporary charge of that match following the dismissal of Ryan Mason earlier this week after the club’s poor run of away form in the Championship.
Ramsay will be joined by Dennis Lawrence as his assistant, who worked alongside him at Minnesota United and previously served on the coaching staff of Roberto Martínez at Wigan and Everton. Lawrence also gained experience working with Mark Robins during his time at Coventry City before moving to Major League Soccer.
West Brom chairman Shilen Patel praised Ramsay’s credentials during the recruitment process, stating that the new head coach consistently exhibited the qualities needed to succeed in demanding football environments. Patel highlighted that Ramsay’s teams have been characterized by intensity, organisation and adaptability, describing these attributes as critical for the sustained success and growth the club envisions in both the short and long term.
Mason was dismissed on Tuesday following Monday night’s 2-1 defeat at Leicester City, which represented the club’s 10th successive away defeat and left West Brom sitting in 18th position in the Championship table. Ramsay inherits a squad that has struggled for consistency on their travels but showed resilience in progressing through the FA Cup with their penalty shootout victory over Swansea.
