Birmingham City have confirmed the appointment of Wayne Rooney as manager on a three-and-a-half-year deal.
Rooney replaces John Eustace. who was dismissed on Monday despite leading Blues to sixth in the Championship.
Birmingham co-owner and chairman of the board Tom Wagner said: “Wayne is a born winner. We believe, with the support of his coaching staff, the club, and our supporters, he will take Blues forward on the next stage of our journey. His playing philosophy will help to realise the ambitions we have set for Birmingham City.
“Wayne has been preparing for an opportunity like this since he embarked on his coaching education whilst still a player at Manchester United. He and his staff have the full support of the board and everyone at the football club.”
Birmingham City Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of @WayneRooney as Manager, agreeing terms on a three-and-a-half-year contract.
Welcome to Blues, Wayne! 🤝🔵
— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) October 11, 2023
Rooney left his previous role at DC United over the weekend following their failure to make the MLS play-offs. His only other job in England was at Derby County.
The 37-year-old, who will be assisted by former England colleague Ashley Cole and ex-Manchester United team-mate John O’Shea, as well as Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth, told the club’s website: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City Football Club at such an exciting time.
“It is very clear that they [the club’s American owners Shelby Companies Limited] have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected.
“I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity. It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.
“We have some exciting young players in the squad, and some who are still to break through into the first team, alongside a core of experienced senior professionals. I have a clear way that I want the team to play, and my coaching staff and I will work hard to implement it. We will create a winning culture here with an identity that gets Blues fans on their feet.
“I’ve played at St Andrew’s and Birmingham City fans were always loud and passionate about their team. It was a really difficult place to come as an opponent and now I get to experience what it is like to have them behind us.
“My job is to elevate the club to the next level and I can’t wait to get started. I know what the expectations are and our job is to deliver.”
