West Brom turn to Eric Ramsay blueprint after stateside success

West Bromwich Albion have appointed Eric Ramsay as their new first-team head coach, backing the blueprint that impressed the club during a detailed recruitment process.

The 34-year-old Welshman arrives at The Hawthorns on a two-and-a-half-year contract following a successful spell in Major League Soccer with Minnesota United and will officially take up the role today.

Ramsay arrives at the Championship outfit following an impressive spell across the pond with Minnesota, where he led the club to their highest-ever points total in the 2025 season.

The Shrewsbury-born coach previously cut his teeth in England with Chelsea and Manchester United and also worked with the Wales national team before heading to the United States in February 2024.

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Impressed

He became the youngest permanent head coach in MLS history and went on to take charge of 81 matches, winning 34 and drawing 21.

Chairman Shilen Patel said: “Throughout our recruitment process, Eric consistently exhibited the qualities to lead and succeed in the world’s most demanding football environment. 

“In his time as a head coach, his teams have been characterised by intensity, organisation, and adaptability – all critical for the sustained success and growth that we envision in the short and long term.

“Eric impressed us as a person, a coach, and a fit for our squad. I am pleased to welcome him to The Albion as we work with purpose to seize the opportunities and confront the challenges before us.” 

Adapt

West Brom sporting director Andrew Nestor added: “Eric’s unique coaching journey has equipped him with significant experience and a deep understanding of English football.

“Eric’s leadership qualities and attention to detail are key traits that stuck out to us, and he has demonstrated an ability to adapt his playing style to get the best from players at his disposal without compromising his football philosophy.

“His recent work as head coach at Minnesota over the past two seasons has reinforced this, having led a squad to perform well beyond expectations against clubs with greater budgets.

“Along with Eric, we are also pleased to have Dennis join him at The Albion.

“Dennis is an accomplished coach in British football with experience of the Championship and the football landscape in the Midlands. Together they have formed a strong alliance.”

Ramsay is also the youngest British coach to have completed the UEFA Pro Licence. He will be joined at Albion by trusted lieutenant Dennis Lawrence, who follows him from Minnesota.

Lawrence brings extensive experience, having previously worked under Roberto Martinez at Wigan Athletic and Everton before later joining Mark Robins’ staff at Coventry City.

Ramsay’s first test comes on Friday night when the Baggies host promotion-chasing Middlesbrough, as he takes charge of a match in England for the first time in front of the West Brom supporters.

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