It’s been a wild ride for Birmingham City fans in the Championship this season. After the seven-time Super Bowl champion, Tom Brady, bought into Birmingham City FC back in August, the Blues found themselves sitting sixth in the table after just 11 games in October. But the board held even loftier aspirations, however, dismissing John Eustace and replacing him (October 11) with none other than England and Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney.
It’s safe to say, expectations have not been met. Appointed on a three-and-a-half-year contract, Wazza was joined by former teammates Ashley Cole and John O’Shea. Since then, the team have slipped to 20th and six points outside of the relegation zone. Monday’s 3-0 loss at Leeds was Wayne’s ninth loss in only 15 games. So it should come as no surprise that Birmingham City have decided to sack Wayne Rooney after just 83 days (January 2).
Chief Executive Officer, Garry Cook, commented: “We are committed to doing what is necessary to bring success to St. Andrew’s. Unfortunately, Wayne’s time with us did not go as planned and we have decided to move in a different direction. The search for a successor begins with immediate effect and we will update supporters when we have further news.”
First Team Coach, Carl Robinson, has also been dismissed, with Professional Development Coach, Steve Spooner, assuming responsibility for Men’s First Team on an interim basis. The remaining coaching staff will be kept on to continue with their duties to assist Spooner.
Birmingham City was the former Everton player’s third managerial appointment, following spells at Derby County and DC United. Wayne impressed at the Rams, despite the club’s ongoing issues off the pitch. With an impressive 55 points, Derby almost avoided relegation in the 2021–22 season despite a 21-point deduction after entering administration.
Moving to DC United after Derby’s relegation, the 37-year-old failed to impress a second time, however. At the end of the 2023 season, he was relieved of his managerial duties after the club failed to qualify for the MLS playoffs.