Former Chelsea defender, Branislav Ivanović has officially completed a move to newly-promoted side West Bromwich Albion, signing a one year deal. The defender arrives at the perfect time as West Brom look to complete a season of survival. He could come straight into the lineup, too, following West Brom’s opening day 3-0 defeat at the hands of Leicester City.
Ivanović Completes West Brom Move
Welcome to West Bromwich Albion, Branislav Ivanović ✍️🇷🇸 pic.twitter.com/kXDjQpbmdm
— West Bromwich Albion (@WBA) September 15, 2020
A Return to the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion for Ivanović
Branislav Ivanović is undoubtedly one of the greatest fullbacks to grace the Premier League. The Serbian defender won it all while in England, from Premier League titles, League and FA Cups, to the ultimate glory of lifting the Champions League trophy a high.
Now, he has a different challenge in front of him, however. And perhaps his toughest yet. Instead of the almost guaranteed glory of Chelsea, Ivanović will be faced with the task of keeping West Brom afloat.
For the first time in his illustrious career, he will be asked to play on the back foot with wave after wave of attacking play coming towards him. At 36 years old, he’ll have the experience to lead the backline, but the question still remains unanswered of whether he will have the legs.
Ivanović’s leadership could be the difference-maker for West Brom as they seek a second season in the Premier League.
What Was Said?
After putting pen to paper, Ivanović told the club website:
“The Premier League is the best league in the world.
“I need to challenge myself and I am ready for the challenge. I am really happy to be back playing in the Premier League.
“I hope I am going to be successful here.
“I have a lot of ambition and I want to prove a lot of things. I will give everything for the team.”
West Brom boss Slaven Bilić then went onto say: “He’s a great addition for us, a team who are newly promoted in the Premier League. He ticks all the boxes for us.
“He’s done everything in his career – it’s been magnificent. We’re delighted. He adds quality and experience on the pitch and off the pitch.
“So it is not only him, it is him plus the influence he will have on not just defenders but the whole team around him. That’s why we targeted him as one of our prime targets.
“It’s a great signing for us.”
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
