Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney has been appointment as the new manager of Championship team Birmingham on Wednesday.
After parting ways with Major League Soccer team DC United last week, Rooney has reached an agreement on a three-and-a-half-year contract to take John Eustace’s place at St Andrew’s.
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 campaign to the Premier League.
“I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City at such an exciting time. It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club,” Rooney said.
“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.”
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 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,” Birmingham co-owner Tom Wagner said.
Rooney previously managed in the Championship with Derby between November 2020 and June 2022.
