This summer has seen a significant change in leadership at West Brom, as the Baggies try to move on from the disappointment of last season’s relegation near-miss.

West Brom were among the top defensive teams in the Championship based on underlying statistics, facing the fewest shots on goal in the division and conceding the third fewest predicted goals.

They didn’t have as much delight after that. The 48 goals they scored were the fifth-fewest in the second tier, and were a major reason why the Baggies finished only four points above the drop zone.

During the off-season, three forwards were released from their contracts, with Josh Maja, who just signed with Ligue 1 club Le Havre, being the most notable departure.

Josh Maja writes West Brom’s goodbye message.

West Brom’s retained list for the 2025/26 season showed that Daryl Dyke was being released at the conclusion of his contract, Karlan Grant was in talks, and Maja had an extension offer on the table.

However, as the summer progressed and Albion announced the signings of Jimmy-Jay Morgan and Barney Stewart, two young forwards with plenty of potential, it became evident that the former Nigerian international would not be extending his stay at the Hawthorns.

On August 1, Maja signed for Ligue 1 team Le Havre, ending speculation about his next club. He returned to France three years after leaving Bordeaux for the Hawthorns.

On August 10, the 27-year-old expressed his gratitude to West Brom fans on Instagram, thanking them for their support over the previous three seasons.

https://www.instagram.com/joshmaja/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=ANBAhQJgDrfO6tCNaL8-jrx

“After three years @wba, it’s time to say goodbye,” he added.A big thank you to everyone in the club, including the players, staff, and everyone behind the scenes. A special thanks to the fans; your support through the highs and lows was tremendous, and I’ll be eternally thankful. It was a privilege to wear this badge, and the memories will endure forever.I wish everyone involved with the club all the best. Once a Baggie, always a Baggie. 💙🤍”

Josh Maja failed to build on 2024/25 momentum in his final year at West Brom.

Maja’s stint at West Brom had numerous highs and lows. Ankle issues wrecked his first two seasons at the Hawthorns, limiting him to just 38 combined league games in both campaigns.

The one in his second season was perhaps more difficult to swallow, considering the 27-year-old had scored 12 goals in 26 league appearances. However, there was a lot of hope and optimism heading into last season that, if Maja could stay fit, he might be an important part of Ryan Mason’s new-look side.

Unfortunately, Maja struggled to break into the starting eleven under Mason and Eric Ramsay last season. Indeed, James Morrison made eight of his 15 league starts last year near the end of the season.

Josh Maja’s stats at West Brom, by season (all comps)

Season

Appearances

Goals

Assists

2023/24 12 1 0 2024/25 26 12 2 2025/26 43 6

During Morrison’s interim tenure, West Brom improved significantly and scored three goals, prompting the permanent head coach to offer him new terms at the end of the season.

However, the 27-year-old has decided to end his tenure at Albion and will attempt to continue his career in France during the 2026/27 season.

West Brom seem dangerous in front of goal with their new recruits.

While there are only pre-season games and a cup win against Rotherham United, who are far from their ideal team strength, West Brom appear to be a bright attacking possibility under James Morrison.

Jimmy-Jay Morgan looks like an excellent signing, having scored twice on his full debut at the AESSEAL New York Stadium, and there are goals in the midfield as well. Felix Horn Myhre and Harry Whitwell scored on Saturday, but Isaac Price and Mikey Johnston are certainly capable of carrying that danger.

Aune Heggebo had a decent first season in the Championship, finishing with nine goals, and Stewart has the ability to reach double digits in his rookie year as well.

Regardless of your feelings about Maja, it is clear that a striker refresh was required at the Hawthorns, and the Baggies now appear much more lively ahead of their league opener against Norwich City on Saturday.