Why West Brom have future star on their hands as academy feat proves

West Bromwich Albion have always provided a pathway to the first-team for their young talents.

For football clubs like West Brom, especially non-only city sides such as the Albion, having a strong academy is invaluable.

Being able to have a steady production line of quality young players coming through can take so much transfer pressure off, as well as providing the potential for big-money cash injections in the future.

West Brom's academy is Category One status, which is the highest possible standard a club can achieve in English football.

It represents the Baggies being in possession of some of the best academy facilities in the country, and reaffirms their commitment to producing homegrown talent.

And, West Brom fans may just have been handed a first glimpse of a future Hawthorns star of the future.

How many age groups Reece Colesby has just stepped up for West Brom

West Brom News has covered Isaiah Bryan's recent move from West Brom's academy to Liverpool over the past few days.

Indeed, it's the latest sign that the Baggies are again doing things right with their youth system, as whilst it's frustrating to lose top talent, it's also a testament to the good work going on in this department.

But, as one young Albion starlet heads for pastures new, another has just offered a glimpse of his obvious potential for future Baggies stardom.

As detailed in an Instagram post from The Talent Hunter, 13-year-old Reece Colesby has just stepped up four levels of youth football to make his Under-18s debut for West Brom.

He came on to make his debut at that level in a pre-season friendly against Shrewsbury Town, after clearly impressing Albion youth coaches.

To be able to mix it with players on the verge of becoming young men at that age is hugely impressive, and takes some character and confidence.

So, Colesby's name is definitely one to keep an eye on over the coming years, but which of West Brom's academy prospects may be ready to play a big first-team role in 2026-27?

Attacking midfield talent primed for breakout West Brom season

James Morrison appears to be the type of head coach willing to give young players a chance in the senior side if he feels they're good enough.

One player who will be confident of breaking into his first-team plans this coming season is attacking midfielder Souleyman Mandey.

The 20-year-old Austrian youth international scored 10 goals and provided four assists across all competitions for the Under-21s in 2025-26, and was handed his senior debut as a late sub against Sheffield Wednesday on the final day of last season.

Ollie Bostock, West Brom's 2025-26 Young Player of the Season, will of course be looking to build on his impressive early first-team performances next term too.

Attacking midfielder Harry Whitwell and right-back Alex Williams are two others who could enter Morrison's thinking if they enjoy big pre-season's.

All this proves is that West Brom are set for a very, very exciting future.