West Bromwich Albion are at a critical juncture in their Championship campaign, with pressure mounting on manager Ryan Mason after an inconsistent start to the season.
The Situation at The Hawthorns
The Baggies took a significant gamble in the summer by appointing the 34-year-old Ryan Mason as their new head coach, following the departure of Tony Mowbray. This role marked Mason's first permanent managerial position since his playing career was cut short in 2016, having moved from a backroom role at Tottenham Hotspur.
However, after the first 14 league fixtures, the Midlands club finds itself languishing in 14th place in the table. While only four points separate them from the play-off positions, the lack of consistent results has raised questions about the manager's future, especially with the international break offering a moment for reflection.
Michael Carrick: The Compelling Alternative
While the club has been linked with Millwall's Alex Neil, who recently signed a new contract making him an expensive acquisition, a far more logical candidate is available: Michael Carrick.
The 44-year-old former England international, capped 34 times for his country, has been without a club since the end of last season. Carrick enjoyed a distinguished playing career with West Ham, Tottenham Hotspur, and Manchester United, making 706 appearances and scoring 34 goals before retiring in 2018.
His managerial credentials were forged at the highest level, beginning with a caretaker role at Manchester United in 2021. He also served on the coaching staff under Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjær, learning from some of the game's most prominent figures.
Carrick's most impressive work came at Middlesbrough, where he took over in October 2022 with the club sitting 22nd in the Championship. In a remarkable turnaround, he won 16 of his first 23 matches in charge, catapulting Boro into play-off contention in his debut season. Although they were defeated in the semi-finals by Coventry City, Carrick's impact was undeniable.
Why Carrick Fits the West Brom Bill
Carrick represents a significant upgrade in experience compared to the incumbent, Ryan Mason. His overall win rate at Middlesbrough stood at a respectable 46.32%, demonstrating a proven ability to secure results in the demanding environment of the second tier.
Beyond the league, he also guided Middlesbrough to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup for the first time since 2004, a run that earned him a new three-year contract. Although his tenure ended after missing the top six in his final two seasons, his initial rescue mission at the Riverside proves he possesses the tactical acumen to lift a struggling squad.
Now available and undoubtedly eager to prove himself again after his sacking in June, Carrick is a manager with a point to prove. His deep understanding of the Championship, combined with his pedigree from both his playing and coaching days, makes him a serious and logical option for the West Brom hierarchy should they decide a change in the dugout is necessary to salvage their season.
