Shilen Patel sends heartfelt message at West Brom as The Hawthorns turns 125
West Brom have called The Hawthorns their home for 125 years now, with Shilen Patel already experiencing the many highs and lows in B71.
Bilkul Football took over the Baggies in 2024 and have since faced several challenges as fans hope to get back into the Premier League.
Patel’s decision to hire Ryan Mason seems to be working out so far after the struggles under Tony Mowbray last season.
While the Albion have lost key players like Torbjorn Heggem and Tom Fellows, Andrew Nestor’s recruitment at The Hawthorns in the previous transfer window was impressive.
West Brom celebrate 125-year anniversary of The Hawthrons
Patel has expressed his pride in being part of the Baggies’ history and the historic stadium, which opened its doors in 1900.
The American businessman shared delight at being able to call The Hawthorns his home, with the passion and support of the supporters also being hailed.
Fans will hope the 125-year-old ground can once again host Premier League matches next season after a five-year absence from the English top flight.
Patel wrote on X on 3 September: “125 years of history, passion, incredible support — The Hawthorns has stood strong since Sep 3, 1900. Proud to call it our home.”
Read More: Mason has ‘next John Terry’ in new summer signing
Andrew Nestor oversees squad overhaul at The Hawthorns
Alex Palmer’s sale at The Hawthorns midway through last season left a bad taste for supporters.
Bilkul didn’t do themselves any favour after making some questionable decisions in the previous campaign after Carlos Corberan’s departure, and Tony Mowbray’s appointment is one example.
Fans were rightfully worried about the Black Country club’s prospects in the previous transfer window, but they’ve arguably come out of it having done some decent business.
Some memorable wins at The Hawthorns:
- 6 March 1971: 4-3 win against Manchester United
- 6 December 1978: 2-0 win against Valencia
- 29 March 2008: 4-3 win against Colchester United
Nat Phillips and Chris Mepham look like a promotion-winning duo, with Josh Griffiths looking much more comfortable compared to last season.
Despite losing the likes of Heggem and Fellows, supporters are confident the current squad under Mason is capable of achieving something special at the end of the season.
Patel and Nestor deserve huge praise for bringing financial stability to the Baggies after the uncertainty under Guochuan Lai, and there will be hope in B71 that The Hawthorns’ 126th anniversary will be in the Premier League.
Sign up for the West Brom News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking West Bromwich Albion news sent straight to your phone.