Valerien Ismael: West Brom appoint Barnsley boss as new head coach

West Bromwich Albion have appointed Barnsley boss Valerien Ismael as their new head coach on a four-year contract.

The 45-year-old Frenchman replaces Sam Allardyce, who left The Hawthorns following Albion’s relegation from the Premier League.

Former Crystal Palace defender Ismael took over at Barnsley last October with the club 21st in the Championship.

They won 25 of his 44 games in charge to finish fifth before losing to Swansea City in the play-offs.

“I feel really proud to have accepted this challenge. I feel a big responsibility but I’m ready for this job and I am delighted to be here,” Ismael told the club website., external

“This was the next step I wanted to take in my career. Although there’s going to be a lot of hard work this season, I am excited for the big task in front of us.

“It’s a big commitment from the club to want me to implement a philosophy I want for the next four years. We have a clear plan and vision of where we want to go.”

Albion have agreed an undisclosed compensation package with the Tykes for the former Wolfsburg and LASK manager.

“Valerien has established a reputation as an excellent coach and I have been impressed by his professionalism, enthusiasm and hunger to succeed,” said Baggies chief executive officer Xu Ke.

“His performance last season with Barnsley, and his coaching career to date, all point to a man who has a long, successful career in front of him. It is my hope that he is with us for at least the next four years.

“I am confident that by working together we will be able to achieve our goal of returning to the Premier League, but success is earned by building on strong foundations, and our plans must now look further into the future.”