Wayne Rooney, a former star for Manchester United, was named Birmingham’s manager on Wednesday.
To succeed John Eustace at St Andrew’s, Rooney, who departed Major League Soccer’s DC United last week, has agreed to a three-and-a-half-year contract.
Despite leading Birmingham to sixth place in the Championship this season, Eustace, who had only been in charge for 15 months, was fired, and Rooney will be expected to lead a promotion bid to the Premier League.
“I am overjoyed to be joining Birmingham City at this moment in history. They clearly have a strategy and are dedicated to achieving their goals for the club, according to Rooney.
“Our understanding of what is anticipated is complete. To prepare for this chance, I have been developing my managerial career and placing myself in demanding circumstances.
I am eager to begin this endeavour since it gives me a sense of purpose.
Former England teammate Ashley Cole, who serves as the England Under-21s assistant coach, and John O’Shea, the assistant coach of the Republic of Ireland, are joining Rooney on his Birmingham coaching staff.
Rooney’s former coworkers at DC United, Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth, will also relocate to St Andrew’s.
Wayne is naturally talented. We are certain that he will lead Blues forward on the next leg of our journey with the help of his coaching staff, the club, and our fans, said Birmingham co-owner Tom Wagner.
Rooney previously served as the manager of Derby in the Championship from November 2020 to June 2022.
