West Brom target Spurs assistant for vacant managerial role
Ryan Mason, fresh from lifting his first major trophy in coaching, is now emerging as the leading candidate to become West Bromwich Albion's new manager, according to TalkSport. The 33-year-old, currently assistant to Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur, is believed to be considering his next career move following Spurs' Europa League final victory over Manchester United.
Mason's coaching journey has so far been a tightly knit one, confined entirely within the walls of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Since his retirement in 2018 due to a head injury, the former midfielder has served as a loyal and increasingly influential figure within the backroom staff. His two spells as caretaker boss, though brief, included a run to the 2021 Carabao Cup final and six wins in 13 games, a respectable return for someone learning on the job.
That recent Europa League success may now serve as a timely springboard. Spurs' win marked the end of a 17-year wait for silverware and came as a landmark moment in Mason's burgeoning career. Though Postecoglou has been widely credited for reshaping the side, Mason's tactical input and steady presence behind the scenes have not gone unnoticed.
West Brom, who are searching for a permanent successor to Tony Mowbray after finishing ninth in the Championship, are weighing Mason's profile against their ambition. The Baggies had been in talks with Marti Cifuentes, formerly of QPR, but Mason is now thought to be the preferred option.
It is not the first time Mason has entertained opportunities away from North London. In October, he held discussions with Belgian outfit Anderlecht before opting to stay at Spurs, where he has two years remaining on his contract.
For now, Mason's decision hinges on timing, ambition and a readiness to take the next step. Spurs, for all their recent progress, may find themselves reluctantly waving goodbye to a figure who symbolises their past, present and — potentially — managerial future.
Ryan Mason is more than just a coach. A homegrown talent whose playing career was tragically cut short, but who channelled that heartbreak into something admirable. His rise through the coaching ranks has been understated, diligent and quietly impressive.
Spurs' Europa League win, while obviously led by Postecoglou, still had Mason's fingerprints on it. His understanding of the club, the dressing room and the modern tactical game makes him a unique asset. Losing him to West Brom would sting, but it would also be a source of pride for the Spurs Faithful.
There's always been a sense Mason was being primed for a bigger role at Spurs one day. But with Postecoglou firmly established, Mason deserves the space to grow. West Brom, while not the flashiest destination, is a club with history and ambition. It's the kind of role where he could make mistakes, grow into himself and show what he can really do as a number one.
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