Stefan Borson suggests ‘big fallout’ could explain Karren Brady’s West Ham exit
West Ham United’s former vice-chair Karren Brady appears to have been involved in a “fallout” at the London Stadium after leaving with immediate effect.
That is according to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider the 57-year-old’s departure is “very strange” at this point in the season.
It was confirmed on 21 April Brady has stepped down from her role at West Ham, having joined the club in 2010 following David Sullivan and the late David Gold’s takeover.
Brady’s departure brings to an end her long-standing business relationship with Sullivan, who appointed her as Birmingham City’s managing director in 1993.
It raises questions around West Ham’s leadership moving forward, with executive director Nathan Thompson also leaving with immediate effect and chief finance officer Andy Mollett to depart at the end of the season.
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VISIT THE WEST HAM FINANCE HUBWhy Karren Brady has decided to leave West Ham
There has been speculation around whether Sullivan could also leave West Ham after facing fan protests.
However, it is understood Sullivan and fellow co-owner Daniel Kretinsky are set to purchase some of the Gold family’s shares to become equal partners at the London Stadium.
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| Total Revenue | £270m | £228m |
| Commercial Revenue | £58m | £56m |
| Profit/Loss | £57m | -£104m |
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson discussed what Brady’s departure means for West Ham.
“The timing is very strange to go four weeks before the end of the season with immediate effect,” said Borson.
“It would happen in the following scenarios – some corporate activity, a big fallout or a personal issue.
“Now, we’re not aware of any personal issue, so most likely there was some kind of fallout. I don’t know what it is obviously, but it just doesn’t happen.”
How Brady’s exit will impact West Ham
Borson insisted Brady’s departure will have an impact on West Ham due to her experience.
“She’s been there 16 years,” said Borson.
“You just don’t leave this close to the end of the season with immediate effect. We don’t know what the situation is, but nobody could argue that it’s a planned situation for somebody to leave with immediate effect on 21 April.
“It probably will have an impact. As much as people are critical, she’s an extremely experienced, competent operator.
“One of the most experienced around probably, and you would think that would have some impact.”
West Ham currently sit 17th in the Premier League table, two points above third-bottom Tottenham heading into the final four games of the season.
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