Ryan Mason has revealed what it was like to work under Antonio Conte and explained why he decided to leave Tottenham after the Europa League success under Ange Postecoglou.
The 34-year-old left Spurs to become head coach of West Brom in the summer, bringing an end to his long association with the Lilywhites.. After spending eight years at the club as a player, Mason returned to Tottenham in a coaching capacity in 2018 and worked under Jose Mourinho, Conte and Postecoglou.
The former midfielder was even appointed interim head coach in 2021 and 2023 before becoming one of Postecoglou's assistants ahead of the 2023/24 season. Mason was well-liked among the playing squad and enjoyed the 1-0 win over Manchester United in Bilbao as much as anyone.
Mason always had ambitions to become a manager, though, and even spoke to Postecoglou about the matter only a matter of months ago. In an interview with Sky Sports, Mason said: "We created history together and we'll be bonded forever because when you win with someone, that connection is never broken.
"In the last 12 months I had the desire [to go out on my own] and it felt like the time was right. I spoke to Ange and he advised me it needs to feel right, and when it does, go for it.
"I spoke to some clubs in the last 12 months, but nothing felt right. The way the season ended in Bilbao with Spurs was amazing. When I understood [West Brom] Albion were interested, it felt right. It's a massive club with great history and impressive people. I felt a real alignment and connection straight away."
West Brom have started the new season in decent form under Mason, winning four and drawing two of their eight Championship games. It means the Baggies are fourth in the table and four points off leaders Middlesbrough.
Mason was also asked to reflect on his time under Conte and what he learned from the Italian. Conte was appointed in November 2021 following the sacking of Nuno Espirito Santo and helped Spurs qualify for the Champions League. Tottenham struggled for form the following campaign, though, and after a number of public outbursts, Conte left the club by mutual consent in March 2023.
"It was just everything with him," Mason said when asked about Conte. "Preparation. Detail. The way he lives his life. It's engrossed in winning and can become contagious. He was amazing."