Wayne Rooney has been fired as Birmingham City manager after a run of nine defeats in 15 games left the team on the brink of the EFL Championship relegation zone. The decision came from the club’s American owners, Knighthead Capital Management, led by Tom Wagner, after a not-so-jolly 3-0 defeat against Leeds United on New Year’s Day.
In a heartfelt official statement, the club admitted, “Despite their best efforts, results have not met the expectations that were made clear at the outset. Therefore, the Board feels that a change in management is in the best interests of the football club.” The departure also extended to first-team coach Carl Robinson, paving the way for professional development coach Steve Spooner to temporarily take the coaching reins.
🚨🔵 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 | Birmingham City have sacked Wayne Rooney after 15 games, reports @MirrorFootball!
He has a 13% win percentage at the championship club. pic.twitter.com/W77SzjUgvU
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) January 2, 2024
While the bigwigs deliberated over the fate of CEO Garry Cook, who brought Rooney on board, the club acknowledged, “Unfortunately, Wayne’s time with us did not go as planned, and we have decided to move in a different direction.” Cook, with a tinge of regret, conceded the need for a successor, saying, “The search for a successor begins with immediate effect, and we will update supporters when we have further news.”
Rooney, that familiar face from Manchester United and England, took the helm at Birmingham in October, waving goodbye to his coaching gig at MLS side D.C. United. Despite inheriting a team on the brink of Championship playoff glory, Rooney’s stint saw a rocky start with four defeats in his first five games, sending Birmingham tumbling down the league standings.
Known for his candid remarks, Rooney didn’t hold back, criticizing players’ fitness levels and their interpretation of his tactical playbook. After managing only two wins during his three-month tenure, Rooney bid adieu just before the much-anticipated FA Cup third-round clash with Hull City.
In a personal goodbye, Rooney expressed his gratitude, saying, “I would like to thank Tom Wagner, Tom Brady, and Garry Cook for the opportunity to manage Birmingham City FC and the support they all gave me during my short period with the club.” Rooney acknowledged the results were not up to par but emphasized that 13 weeks weren’t enough to bring about the necessary changes. Planning to spend quality time with his family before gearing up for the next managerial adventure, Rooney added, “Finally, I wish Birmingham City FC and its owners my best wishes in the pursuit of their ambitions.” Here’s to the next chapter for both Wayne Rooney and Birmingham City!