West Brom sign George Campbell: Ex-manager once said what makes him so ‘tremendous’
West Brom completed the signing of George Campbell from Major League Soccer side CF Montreal on Friday.
The 24-year-old signed a four-year deal at The Hawthorns, adding to Ryan Mason’s side ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Campbell also earned his first-ever cap for the United States national team in January this year.
Gonzalo Pineda was a big fan of Campbell’s potential back in 2021
Gonzalo Pineda was Campbell’s coach at Atlanta United and has waxed lyrical over the defender.
In September 2021, the then 20-year-old put in a stellar performance for the American club against Orlando City SC.
They ended up winning the game 3-0, which left them very close to the Eastern Conference playoff spots.
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montréal | 78 | 1 | 5 |
| Atlanta | 38 | 1 | 0 |
| ATL UTD 2 | 27 | 2 | 0 |
Pineda said: “I can see a centre-back with tremendous potential. He’s a centre back that is physically gifted. His aggression when he presses between the lines was fantastic today, so I was pleased with his performance before he scored the goal.
“He did a couple tackles on the ground, and we gained a couple important balls in transition that helped us to continue the attacking. I am very happy with his performance.”
West Brom have made a shrewd acquisition in Campbell
Campbell brings athleticism, ball-playing ability and versatility to West Brom, making him an important signing for them.
His 6’2″ frame, pace and aggression in pressing suit Mason’s high-intensity, possession-based style, aiming to build a robust Championship defence.
The United States international’s ability to carry the ball and provide cover at right-back adds tactical flexibility, potentially forming a strong partnership with Nat Phillips.
To maximise Campbell’s potential, Mason should leverage his experience under managers like Mauricio Pochettino and Antonio Conte, focusing on tailored coaching to refine Campbell’s positioning and decision-making, ensuring he adapts swiftly to the Championship’s physicality and pace.
Hopefully, he goes on to become a mainstay in the Baggies backline and can play a key role in getting them promoted to the Premier League.
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