West Bromwich Albion has officially announced a takeover, ending the tenure of the previous owner, Lai, who was criticized for his management of the club. Fans and commentators have expressed relief and optimism for the future under the new ownership, highlighting the club's precarious situation under Lai's control. The new era is seen as a crucial step in ensuring the club's survival and success, with Carlos Corberan credited for making the club an attractive prospect despite the challenges. The purchase price of the club under Lai exceeded £207 million, but its value had significantly diminished by the end of his tenure. The identity and plans of the new owner, identified only as Patel, remain largely unknown, but the initial reactions from the community are hopeful.
Huge relief that this has happened. We were teetering on the abyss under the previous owner. Reading up on the Patel family, they appear to be exactly the type of people that Albion need. #wba https://t.co/JaAnDqspmf
This is the news that every Albion fan has been waiting for. New investment in our club is sorely needed so I'm delighted to see progress in the takeover talks. I'll be eagerly awaiting developments and look forward to discussions with the new ownership. https://t.co/Y9EcjgxrfE
West Brom fans 'can't stop smiling' as club finally announce takeover https://t.co/WtHKsyCbRg
I am just so relieved. I am convinced we would have gone under with Lai in charge. It is so alarming how those running football are allowing our clubs to be bought by people who can so quickly run them into the ground. https://t.co/v9iuKPHTPk
I am just so relieved. I am convinced we would have gone under with Lai in charge. It is so alarming how those running football are allowing our clubs to be bought by people with who can so quickly run them into the ground. https://t.co/v9iuKPHTPk
The aim of this season was to get Lai out - a man dragging us towards oblivion. We have Carlos Corberan to thank for working miracles to keep us an attractive prospect. Not enough is known about Patel to judge what happens next, but it’s a relief that my club will exist #wba https://t.co/pccyNqDgtf
Start of a new era for #wba. Never again must the club be used as a bank for someone else's business interests. The Lai era is finally over. From a purchase price of more than £207m, to a point of utter worthlessness. Thank God he's gone.