West Bromwich Albion have taken decisive action, dismissing head coach Ryan Mason in the wake of a dramatic and damaging late defeat to Leicester City.
Mason's Departure Confirmed After Leicester Loss
The club confirmed the move on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, just hours after a heartbreaking 2-1 loss at the King Power Stadium. The decisive blow came in injury time, with Abdul Fatawu's goal condemning the Baggies to their tenth consecutive away defeat under Mason's stewardship.
This dismal run of form has left Albion languishing in 18th place in the Championship table, a precarious position far below pre-season expectations. Mason, who had been in charge for 26 games, managed to secure just nine wins during his tenure.
Backroom Staff Also Exit The Hawthorns
The clear-out extends beyond the head coach. In its official statement, the club confirmed that Assistant Head Coach Nigel Gibbs and First Team Coach/Head of Performance Sam Pooley have also left the club.
The statement expressed the club's gratitude, saying: "The club would like to place on record its thanks to Ryan, Nigel and Sam for their efforts and wishes all three the very best for the future."
Interim Arrangements and Search for Successor
With immediate effect, First Team Coach James Morrison will take temporary charge of first-team affairs. Morrison, a former Albion midfielder, will oversee training and match preparations while the board begins the urgent task of finding a permanent replacement.
The club confirmed that the process of recruiting a new men's first team Head Coach and staff is already underway. This search will be critical for a club desperate to halt its slide and move back up the Championship standings.
The pressure is now on the Albion hierarchy to make an appointment that can galvanise a squad clearly struggling for confidence, particularly on their travels, and steer the club towards safety and stability.
