Birmingham City has officially appointed Wayne Rooney as their new manager. The 37-year-old former England captain has signed a three-and-a-half-year managerial contract with the Championship club.
Rooney is taking over the role from John Eustace, who the club sacked on Monday after his 15-month tenure as head coach. This change in management is the first under the ownership of Blues’ new American owners, Shelby Companies Limited, who assumed control in July.
Supporting Rooney in his managerial role are his former England teammate and current England Under-21 assistant, Ashley Cole, along with his former Manchester United colleague, John O’Shea, who serves as the assistant coach for the Republic of Ireland men’s national team. Additionally, Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth, who previously worked with Rooney at DC United, are also joining his coaching staff.
Wayne Rooney is entering his third venture into football management, following stints at the MLS club and Derby County. Birmingham City is scheduled to play their first game under his leadership on October 21st when they face Middlesbrough.
Birmingham City co-owner and chairman Tom Wagner expressed his confidence in Rooney’s appointment, stating, “Wayne is a natural winner, and we believe that, with the support of his coaching team, the club, and our devoted fan base, he will drive Birmingham City forward in the next phase of our journey. His playing philosophy aligns with the ambitions we’ve set for the club, and Wayne’s preparation for this opportunity, starting from his coaching education during his Manchester United playing days, is truly commendable. The board and everyone at the club fully support him and his staff.”
Wayne Rooney’s return to English football follows just over a year with DC United, based in Washington, marking the next chapter in his managerial career.
