Rooney, who left Major League Soccer’s DC United last week, has agreed to a three-and-a-half-year contract to replace John Eustace at St Andrew’s.
Despite bringing Birmingham to sixth place in the Championship this season, Eustace was ousted after just 15 months in command, and Rooney will be expected to supervise a campaign for promotion to the Premier League.
“I am overjoyed to be joining Birmingham City at such an exciting time.” “It’s clear that they have a plan and are committed to realizing their goals for the club,” Rooney added.
“We are completely in agreement on what is required. I’ve been developing my managerial skills and placing myself in hard situations to prepare for this chance.
“It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.”
Former England teammate Ashley Cole, now England Under-21s assistant coach, and Republic of Ireland assistant coach John O’Shea join Rooney on his Birmingham backroom staff.
Carl Robinson and Pete Shuttleworth, both of whom worked with Rooney at DC United, will both join the club.
“Wayne is a natural winner.” “We believe he will take Blues forward on the next stage of our journey with the support of his coaching staff, the club, and our supporters,” Birmingham co-owner Tom Wagner said.
