In a groundbreaking move for West Bromwich Albion, Shilen Patel is poised to become the club’s new chairman after successfully negotiating a deal to acquire an 87.8% stake in the Championship club.
This significant takeover by Bilkul Football WBA, owned by Patel and his father Kiran Patel, has gained approval from the English Football League, marking a new era for the club.
West Bromwich Albion’s New Chairman Shilen Patel
West Bromwich Albion is on the cusp of a transformative change as serial investor Shilen Patel prepares to take the helm as the club’s new chairman. Patel, known for his diverse investments spanning technology, healthcare, sport, real estate, finance, and food & beverage across five continents, is set to acquire an 87.8% stake in the Championship club.
This significant move is part of a takeover orchestrated by Bilkul Football WBA, a venture owned by Patel and his father, Kiran Patel.
Shilen Patel’s venture into the football realm is not unprecedented, as he has held a minority shareholding in Serie A club Bologna FC 1909 since 2014. With this background, Patel brings a wealth of experience and a global perspective to West Bromwich Albion, signaling potential positive changes for the club.
Shilen Patel Set to Become Chairman After Agree on A Deal
The acquisition of the majority stake in West Bromwich Albion by Bilkul Football WBA has received the green light from the English Football League. This move is poised to bring about a change in club ownership, ending Guochuan Lai’s tenure, who has been at the helm since 2016.
Shilen Patel expressed his excitement and optimism about the impending deal, stating, “I am thrilled and grateful to have reached an agreement to become the custodian of West Bromwich Albion Football Club.”
In a statement, he acknowledged the club’s rich history, passionate fan base, and potential for greatness. Patel looks forward to steering the club towards a future that aligns with its storied past as a pioneering top-flight team.
With the English Football League giving its approval, the deal is set to be finalized in the coming week. This marks a significant moment for West Bromwich Albion, as they undergo a change in leadership and direction. Patel’s vision for the club aims to harness its historical pride and passion, setting the stage for a promising future.
BBC Sport had previously reported in January that Shilen Patel emerged as a prominent candidate to take control of West Bromwich Albion. This acknowledgment further solidifies Patel’s standing in the football community and underscores the anticipation surrounding his leadership.
The impending takeover comes at a time when West Bromwich Albion confirmed additional financial support. In November, the club secured an unspecified loan from American investment group MSD Holdings. This follows a previous loan of £20 million borrowed in December 2022, aimed at assisting with the club’s ongoing funding requirements.
Conclusion
As Shilen Patel gears up to become West Bromwich Albion’s chairman, the football community is abuzz with anticipation. Patel’s multifaceted investment background, coupled with his passion for the sport, positions him as a promising leader for the club. The imminent changes reflect a strategic shift in ownership, signaling the beginning of a new era for West Bromwich Albion.
The club’s supporters, historical significance, and potential for greatness are set to be the focal points under Patel’s custodianship. As the deal nears completion, all eyes are on the transformation that awaits the Championship club under the leadership of Shilen Patel.