West Brom news: Tony Mowbray replaces Carlos Corberan, targets Premier League
New West Brom manager Tony Mowbray has set his sights on promotion to the Premier League - but wants to play attacking football as they target a return to England’s top tier.
The 61-year-old former Baggies boss made an emotional return to The Hawthorns on Saturday, receiving rapturous applause from the home fans before watching the 1-1 draw with Stoke City.
Mowbray has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract and will take charge of his first game when West Brom travel to one of his former teams Middlesbrough on Tuesday night.
He takes the managerial reins from Chris Brunt, who had been taking first-team duties following Carlos Corberan’s departure to Valencia earlier this month.
And Mowbray will be assisted by Mark Venus as he makes a return to management, after stepping down as Birmingham boss last year after receiving treatment for bowel cancer.
Mowbray was given the all-clear by doctors earlier this week having endured a "tough year" - and he says he is relishing the challenge ahead, with Albion in the play-off places having won nine and drawn 14 of their 27 Championship matches so far this season.
He told the club’s official website: "I’m ready to relish the challenge again. It’s a new challenge. I know I’ve been here before, but it’s a new challenge, a new time, a new era for me at the football club.
"This is a club I’ve got great affection for. It’s a club I care for, it’s a club I followed before and after my previous time as manager.
“It’s a club where it’s always been special whenever I returned with other teams.
"It’s a real family football club and that’s why I had the discussions with the ownership. I’m so excited to be walking back through the doors and helping the team.
"I would like to thank Chairman Shilen Patel, Sporting Director Andrew Nestor and all involved in bringing me back for providing me with a second opportunity to manage this great club.
“I like the set-up of the club, I like the people. In my discussions with them they were very humble, there was no arrogance, just good people who want to succeed.
"A lot has changed since my first time here, but the club feels like its back on the rise.
“The one thing I know won’t have changed is the supporters – and I can’t wait to rekindle my excellent relationship with them.”
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He added: "The first time I was here was a great time and I hope to again assemble a team that plays positive football, providing the fans with great memories of winning football games.
"I hope that now that I've come back, we can get back to where the supporters, team, club and owners want to be, which is in the Premier League – and that will be our focus.
"There is lots of quality in the squad with a good mix of youth and experience. It’s my job to get the best out of it. I certainly have the same drive and determination to do so.
"We’re going to attack, we’re going to be positive, we’re going to go and play and hopefully get the fans out of their seats and win some games.
"The starting point is a good one, we’re not scrambling to get away from anything. We’ve got a great opportunity and chance to compete towards the top end of the table.”
Here, Sports News Blitz takes a look at Tony Mowbray’s distinguished managerial journey.
Early Triumphs at Hibernian (2004–2006)
Mowbray began his managerial journey at Hibernian (Hibs) in 2004, immediately making a mark on Scottish football.
Tasked with revitalizing the team, he introduced a dynamic, attacking philosophy and placed trust in young players.
His efforts bore fruit as Hibs secured a third-placed finish in the Scottish Premier League in his debut season.
This remarkable achievement earned him the Scottish Football Writers’ Association Manager of the Year award, a testament to his transformative impact.
Building a Legacy at West Bromwich Albion (2006–2009)
In 2006, Mowbray took the reins at West Bromwich Albion (WBA), where his commitment to an elegant, possession-based style endeared him to fans and neutrals alike.
Under his leadership, WBA captured the 2007–08 Football League Championship, earning promotion to the Premier League.
His tenure also saw the team reach the FA Cup semi-finals in 2008, further cementing his reputation as a manager who marries results with an aesthetic brand of football.
Though the club faced relegation in the 2008–09 season, Mowbray’s unwavering belief in his footballing philosophy left an indelible mark.
Leading Celtic (2009–2010)
In 2009, Mowbray was entrusted with the responsibility of managing Celtic, one of Scotland’s most storied clubs.
While his time at Celtic Park proved challenging, he remained true to his principles, striving to implement an expansive style of play.
Though results did not align with expectations, Mowbray’s tenure at Celtic is remembered for his unshakeable commitment to his ideals, even in the face of adversity.
Returning Home to Middlesbrough (2010–2013)
Taking charge of his boyhood club, Middlesbrough, in 2010, Mowbray brought stability and a clear sense of purpose during a turbulent period for the club.
Despite financial constraints, he worked diligently to rebuild the squad, fostering a sense of unity and laying the foundations for future progress.
His tenure, marked by resilience and dedication, reinforced his deep connection to the club and its supporters.
Reviving Coventry City (2015–2016)
In 2015, Mowbray took on the challenge of managing Coventry City, guiding them away from the brink of relegation.
His tactical nous and motivational skills rejuvenated the team, leading to a promising start to the following season.
Though his time with Coventry was brief, his impact highlighted his ability to breathe new life into struggling sides.
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Steadying the Ship at Blackburn Rovers (2017–2022)
Mowbray’s appointment at Blackburn Rovers in 2017 marked the beginning of a remarkable chapter in his career.
Despite inheriting a team on the brink of relegation from the Championship, he galvanized the squad, leading them to immediate promotion from League One in the 2017–18 season.
Over the following years, he established Blackburn as a stable Championship side, fostering the development of talented players while consistently delivering commendable results on a modest budget.
His leadership was instrumental in restoring pride and optimism to a historic club.
Guiding Sunderland (2022–2023)
In 2022, Mowbray took charge of Sunderland, a club on the rise following their return to the Championship.
His tenure has been defined by his masterful development of young talents, such as Amad Diallo, and his ability to instill an attacking, fearless identity in the team.
Under his guidance, Sunderland reached the playoffs in the 2022–23 season, a testament to his tactical acumen and motivational prowess.
Managerial Philosophy
Tony Mowbray is revered for his commitment to attractive, possession-based football and his unwavering belief in nurturing young players.
His calm demeanor, humility, and long-term vision have earned him the respect of players, colleagues, and supporters across the footballing world.
Achievements and Honours
Football League Championship Winner (2007–08): West Bromwich Albion
Scottish Football Writers’ Association Manager of the Year (2004–05): Hibernian
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