The remarkable journey of Nat Phillips has taken another significant turn, with the defender securing a permanent move to West Bromwich Albion after nine years at Liverpool. The 28-year-old centre-back’s story continues to captivate football fans across the UK, representing one of the most unlikely success stories in recent Premier League history.
A £3 Million Fresh Start at The Hawthorns
West Bromwich Albion completed the signing of Nat Phillips for a fee reported to be £3 million, including add-ons. The defender has penned a three-year contract with the Championship side, marking his first permanent move away from Liverpool since joining the Anfield club in 2016.
Phillips becomes West Brom’s first summer signing under new head coach Ryan Mason, who was appointed in June 2025. The former Tottenham midfielder has made strengthening the defence a priority as the Baggies aim to improve on their ninth-place finish last season.
Speaking about his decision to join West Brom, Nat Phillips emphasised the club’s Premier League aspirations. “A big factor was that this is obviously a big club with high aspirations – and I’d say those aspirations align with mine,” he explained. The defender added that he was attracted by the opportunity to compete for promotion and push for Premier League football.
Statistical Excellence in the Championship
Phillips’ recent performances at Derby County provided compelling evidence of his Championship credentials. During the 2024-25 season, he made 32 appearances in the Championship, scoring one goal and receiving three yellow cards. His defensive statistics were particularly impressive, with 156 clearances and 28 shots blocked across the campaign.
The Bolton-born defender demonstrated his aerial dominance by winning 130 aerial duels, placing him in the 98th percentile for centre-backs in the Championship. His ground duel success rate of 65.5% and 10 clean sheets in 32 matches highlighted his defensive reliability. These statistics explain why West Brom were keen to secure his services for their promotion push.
The Remarkable Liverpool Journey
Nat Phillips’ time at Liverpool reads like a football fairy tale. The defender joined the Reds’ academy in 2016, having almost embarked on a completely different path. Phillips had secured a four-year scholarship at the University of North Carolina, with flights booked and accommodation arranged. However, Liverpool’s offer came just two days before his scheduled departure to America.
The 2020-21 season proved to be Phillips’ defining moment at Anfield. When Liverpool faced a defensive injury crisis, with Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez sidelined, Phillips stepped up alongside fellow academy graduate Rhys Williams. The duo helped Liverpool secure a third-place finish and Champions League qualification against all odds.
Jürgen Klopp’s praise for Phillips during that campaign became legendary among Liverpool supporters. “In the air, he’s a monster! He was incredible,” Klopp declared after Phillips’ impressive Premier League debut against West Ham. The German manager described Phillips as a “brilliant guy” who “helped the team incredibly”.
Championship Experience Across Multiple Clubs
Phillips gained valuable Championship experience through various loan spells before his permanent West Brom move. His stint at AFC Bournemouth during the 2021-22 season proved particularly successful, as he helped the Cherries secure promotion to the Premier League. The defender also had spells at Cardiff City and Celtic, though his time in Scotland was less successful.
His most recent loan at Derby County showcased Phillips’ maturity and leadership qualities. Playing under John Eustace, he became a key figure in Derby’s successful battle against relegation. His consistent performances throughout the campaign demonstrated his ability to thrive in the Championship environment.
Ryan Mason’s Defensive Vision
West Brom’s appointment of Ryan Mason as head coach has brought fresh optimism to The Hawthorns. The 33-year-old former Tottenham midfielder has identified defensive reinforcement as crucial for the club’s promotion ambitions. Mason’s experience in coaching roles at Spurs, including two spells as interim manager, has prepared him for the challenge of guiding West Brom back to the Premier League.
Sporting director Andrew Nestor highlighted Phillips’ leadership qualities as a key factor in the signing. “Nat will bolster an already strong back line and brings with him leadership qualities, which really stood out for us,” Nestor explained. The club believes Phillips is entering his peak years as a centre-back and can develop further at West Brom.
Championship Promotion Push
The signing of Nat Phillips represents West Brom’s serious intent to challenge for promotion in the 2025-26 Championship season. The defender’s experience at the highest level, combined with his proven Championship record, makes him an ideal addition to Mason’s squad. His aerial strength and defensive awareness will be crucial assets in the physical demands of England’s second tier.
Phillips expressed his excitement about finally settling at a permanent home after years of loan moves. “I’ve had a number of loans over the past few years and it’ll be really nice for me and my family to go somewhere and know we’re staying there,” he said. This stability could prove vital for both his personal development and West Brom’s promotion hopes.
The defender’s journey from potential American college student to Championship stalwart continues to inspire young players across the UK. His story demonstrates that unconventional pathways can lead to professional success, provided determination and hard work remain constant.
As Nat Phillips begins this new chapter at West Bromwich Albion, the Championship will witness whether his remarkable journey can reach its ultimate destination: a return to Premier League football. With Mason’s tactical guidance and the support of the West Brom faithful, Phillips has the platform to prove his Premier League credentials once again.
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