Eric Ramsay Makes Historic Move from MLS to West Bromwich Albion
Young Coach Returns to English Football
West Bromwich Albion announced on Sunday that Eric Ramsay will be leaving Minnesota United to join the club, marking a significant moment in the young coach’s career. The 34-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year contract to replace Ryan Mason who was sacked on Tuesday after a 10th successive away defeat left them 18th in the Championship table, seven points above the relegation zone.
From Manchester United Assistant to MLS Success
Minnesota was Ramsay’s first head coaching job after working alongside Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. After an early transition from playing to coaching, he rose quickly through Chelsea’s academy before joining Manchester United’s first-team staff, working under Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Ralf Rangnick, and Erik ten Hag. He also became the youngest British coach to earn a UEFA Pro Licence.
Ramsay joined Minnesota early into the 2024 season at age 32, becoming the youngest head coach in Major League Soccer history. During his two seasons, Ramsay led the Loons to a 38W-27L-16D record in 81 matches across all competitions. In 2025, Minnesota set club records for regular-season wins (16) and points (58). They finished fourth in the Western Conference and reached the Conference Semifinals in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.
Challenging Task Awaits at The Hawthorns
Ramsay’s immediate task will be to pull the Baggies clear of relegation danger and restore stability at The Hawthornes. West Brom is currently 18th in England’s second-tier Championship, facing a critical period in their season. The timing presents both opportunity and pressure for the young manager.
Ramsay expressed gratitude, saying: ‘We’re incredibly grateful for our time in Minnesota. We’ve made friends for life, experienced a part of the world we may never otherwise have seen, and shared something truly special as a family’. Ramsay will bring assistant Dennis Lawrence with him as he embarks on this new chapter.
Significance for Both Clubs
The move represents a homecoming for the Welsh coach while presenting a significant challenge for Minnesota United. Ramsay’s departure comes amid an active offseason for the Loons. Several key pieces left via free agency, including goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair (to Inter Miami CF), midfielder Robin Lod (to Chicago Fire FC) and midfielder Hassani Dotson (to Seattle Sounders FC). Ramsay’s appointment demonstrates West Brom’s ambition to turn their season around with one of football’s most promising young coaching talents.