Sources: West Brom close in on Eric Ramsay deal after Michael Carrick twist
West Brom are closing in on the appointment of Minnesota United manager Eric Ramsay following their decision to part ways with Ryan Mason.
Michael Carrick had previously been seen as a front-runner for the role thanks to his previous work at Middlesbrough, but is no longer their top choice.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Carrick’s emergence as a contender for the Man United interim role cleared the road for the Baggies to pursue Ramsey, and they are now close to getting their man.
The 33-year-old became the youngest British coach to receive his UEFA Pro License in 2019, and previously worked as a coach under Ole Gunnar Soskjaer at Man United.
Since taking his first full-time managerial role at Minnesota United, Ramsey’s reputation has continued to grow and West Brom are now willing to take the gamble on him.
West Brom look set to appoint Eric Ramsay
West Brom sacked Mason following a late 2-1 defeat to Leicester City which left them 18th in the Championship table and ten points shy of the playoff places.
They have not, however, veered away from their plan to hire a young and upcoming manager who they hope will lead them into an ambitious future.
Carrick had been among the leading candidates for the role, but their admiration of Ramsey made him the first-choice and they have moved quickly to secure his signature.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “Yeah, obviously it was no surprise when West Brom got rid of Ryan Mason.
“It’s been a tough season for West Brom, there’s no getting away from that one but still an attractive job out there I think for anybody who’s looking to get back in.
“Michael Carrick is one of the names that’s been linked with the job, but he’s also in running for the Manchester United interim position as well.
“Eric Ramsey, who’s over in the MLS with Minnesota, he’s a name that’s in the frame and he’s somebody that West Brom have been looking at and are closing in on.
“He’s the current favourite for the job and I think he’s got a real good chance of getting the job on a full-time basis if it’s a job that he wants to take as well.
“Carrick is another name we’ve just talked about as well but he’s also in that running for the Manchester United one so looking at that you would say maybe the road’s clear for Eric Ramsey to maybe get that West Brom job.”
Carrick closes in on Man United interim role
Ruben Amorim was sacked by Man United following his press conference outburst in which he appeared to criticise the board following the 1-1 draw with Leeds at Elland Road.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider on 8 January that Carrick is likely to become Man United’s interim manager and is in a strong position to take on the role.
Carrick was most recently the head coach at Middlesbrough before his dismissal in June 2025, but has been frequently tipped for a job in the Premier League.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown first told Football Insider on 6 January that Man United were eyeing Carrick, with both short and long-term appointments in mind.
The former midfielder made made 464 appearances for the Red Devils, lifting the Champions League and five Premier League titles, and could now make a return.
For more Man United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.