Wayne Rooney has been officially appointed as Birmingham City’s new manager, signing a three-and-a-half-year contract.
The former Manchester United and England striker departed from his position as head coach of DC United by mutual agreement after they failed to make it to the MLS Cup play-offs.
Following the dismissal of their previous manager, John Eustace, despite the club’s sixth-place position in the Championship after consecutive victories, Birmingham swiftly initiated discussions with the 37-year-old.
Rooney will be supported by his former England teammate, Ashley Cole, who is currently the assistant for England’s U21s, John O’Shea, the assistant coach for the Republic of Ireland men’s national team, and his former colleagues from DC United, Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth. Maik Taylor will continue as the goalkeeper coach.
Additionally, Ashley Cole and John O’Shea will maintain their coaching roles with their respective national teams.
Expressing his excitement about the new role, Rooney stated, “I’ve played at St. Andrew’s, and Birmingham City fans were always loud and passionate about their team. It was a really challenging place to visit as an opponent, and now I have the opportunity to experience the support firsthand.”
He added, “My task is to take the club to the next level, and I’m eagerly looking forward to getting started. I understand the expectations, and our responsibility is to meet them.”
