In a surprise homecoming, Tony Mowbray has returned to the Hawthorns to take the reins at West Bromwich Albion, the club he steered to Championship glory 15 years ago. The 61-year-old tactician has put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year contract, stepping into the void left by Carlos Corberán’s abrupt exit to Valencia in December.
Mowbray’s appointment marks a nostalgic reunion for the Baggies faithful, who fondly recall his three-year tenure from 2006 to 2009. The high point of that stint undoubtedly came in 2008, when Mowbray masterminded Albion’s surge to the Championship title and promotion back to the Premier League promised land.
Unfinished Business
While Mowbray’s top-flight adventure with West Brom proved short-lived, ending in relegation and his departure for Celtic in 2009, the chance to write a new chapter in his Hawthorns story has proven irresistible. The seasoned manager brings a wealth of experience from his subsequent spells at Middlesbrough, Coventry, Blackburn, Sunderland, and Birmingham.
Tony has a wealth of experience across British football and shares our vision for the football club. He truly cares about bringing the best out of players and instils determination and commitment in his teams.
– Shilen Patel, West Brom Chairman
Playoff Push
Mowbray inherits a squad brimming with potential, sitting just one point adrift of the Championship playoff spots. His mission is clear: to galvanize the Baggies and propel them back into promotion contention. With 18 games remaining, every point will be precious in the congested race for the top six.
The new manager’s first test comes on Tuesday with a tricky away trip to Middlesbrough. Mowbray will be relying on the experience of assistant Chris Brunt, who takes charge against Stoke this Saturday, to ensure a seamless transition and build momentum from the off.
Reuniting with Old Faces
While much has changed in the 15 years since Mowbray last patrolled the Hawthorns touchline, some familiar faces remain. Club captain Chris Brunt, now part of the coaching staff, played under Mowbray during his first spell and will provide valuable insight into the current squad’s strengths and dynamics.
There’s also a sense of unfinished business for Mowbray on a personal level. His previous stint, while bringing Championship success, ended in the disappointment of relegation from the Premier League. This time around, he’ll be determined to not only guide West Brom back to the top flight but establish them as a force to be reckoned with at that level.
A New Era Dawns
Mowbray’s return marks the dawn of a new era at the Hawthorns, one the club hopes will be defined by the same attacking flair, resilience, and never-say-die attitude that characterized his Championship-winning side of 2008. With the unwavering support of the board and fans, he has the platform to rekindle that magic and write his name into West Brom folklore once more.
The pieces are in place for a thrilling final chapter to the Championship season. Tony Mowbray and West Bromwich Albion, reunited after 15 years, are ready to rekindle the flames of a special partnership and chase the Premier League dream together once more.
