Shilen Patel sends apology to West Brom fans over ‘humbling’ situation | OneFootball

Shilen Patel has taken responsibility for West Brom's disappointing 2025/26 campaign.

West Brom endured a very difficult 2025/26 season, although they ultimately managed to stay in the Championship after former player James Morrison did a fine job during the run-in.

Albion’s financial situation meant a play-off push always seemed unlikely, but few envisaged that they would be battling to stay in the league.

However, the decision to appoint Ryan Mason didn’t work out, with Eric Ramsay also struggling after he succeeded the ex-Spurs coach. Therefore, when Morrison was named interim boss in March, staying up was the only aim.

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Pleasingly for all connected to the club, he inspired a massive improvement in the group, and whilst the Baggies finished 21st, they were four points above the relegation zone, which included dealing with a deduction due to breaching EFL rules.

Shilen Patel makes honest admission to West Brom fans

Therefore, it’s fair to say it was a chaotic season for Albion, but even though there was major relief that they survived, it was an unacceptable year on the whole.

And, in an open letter to supporters via the club site, owner Shilen Patel has acknowledged that he was responsible for the way it played out, as he vowed to make things better moving forward.

“Last season was challenging and humbling, and I must begin here: I sincerely apologise to our supporters and everyone within and around the club for the extremely disappointing runs of form and other setbacks throughout what became a historically poor season," Patel wrote.

“West Bromwich Albion’s history, potential, and support set a clear standard and as Chairman I am ultimately responsible for meeting it. Last season, we fell far short, and I take full responsibility for that. I am also responsible for us doing much better in the future. In the end, we collectively pulled ourselves back from the worst of possibilities by showing our very best.

“It truly took every scrap of energy on the pitch and in the stands that we could muster, powered by belief and togetherness around the club and behind the scenes. Together, we changed the story of the season into one of commitment, resilience, and unity and showed once again that this club can never be counted out and that we will face the future together.”

Albion have already started work on building for the upcoming season, with Morrison in place on a permanent managerial contract, and they have completed deals for back-up goalkeeper Matt Ingram, as well as the additions of youthful attacking pair Jimmy-Jay Morgan and Barney Stewart.

Shilen Patel will be judged on West Brom’s actions moving forward

Firstly, you have to applaud Patel for speaking out to the fans in the manner he has, as it was a lengthy open letter that covered various topics.

It was also good to see him admitting to mistakes, but, ultimately, he will be judged on what happens moving forward.

To his credit, the start to the summer has been positive in that sense, as the signing of Stewart in particular looks like excellent business, and Albion have also agreed deals with some important members of the squad.

Now, it’s about continuing to back Morrison in the market, as, whilst it was a small sample size, he really did do an outstanding job last season, as he found a tactical setup that got the best out of the players.

So, the signs are encouraging, but a fair assessment of Patel’s words here will come months into the new season.

West Brom fans react to Shilen Patel’s message

There was generally a positive reaction to Patel's comments, with this Albion fan explaining how he appreciated the honesty from the owner.

Another supporter was pleased with what Patel had discussed, although he stressed the need to see 'progress' moving forward.

Many fans, including this Albion supporter, were quick to point out it's the sort of communication that had been badly lacking under the previous regime.

That positivity was certainly echoed by this West Brom fan, who is confident of what the future looks like with Patel at the top.