Birmingham City are entering the Championship with renewed ambition and optimism, fuelled by high-profile ownership and record-breaking momentum. Following a stellar League One campaign that ended in promotion and an astonishing 111-point haul, the club is aiming to make an immediate impact in the second tier.
NFL legend Tom Brady, a minority owner, brings a champion’s mindset to the club, stressing the need for relentless commitment and discipline to sustain success. Chairman Tom Wagner, meanwhile, has laid out bold plans that go far beyond the pitch, including a vision for a new 62,000-seat stadium as part of a wider sports quarter development. His mantra, “if you can’t say it, you can’t do it,” reflects the board’s ambition to return Birmingham to the Premier League and stay there.
The club’s transformation has been dramatic. From infrastructure failures like condemned stands and no heating in offices, Birmingham now boasts record revenue levels, even eclipsing all non-parachute payment clubs in the Championship. New commercial deals with Nike and Delta Air Lines have been instrumental in boosting the club’s financial muscle.
Brady’s involvement has added global intrigue. A new Prime Video documentary, Built in Birmingham: Brady & the Blues, captures his journey, including cultural adjustments, early visits to St Andrew’s, and playful digs at rivals Aston Villa. The docuseries also reflects on past lessons, such as the brief and turbulent Wayne Rooney managerial spell, and celebrates emotional player stories like Jay Stansfield’s return to Exeter.
On the pitch, Birmingham have been active in the transfer market, re-signing Demarai Gray and acquiring prolific former Celtic striker Kyogo Furuhashi among eight summer signings. Chris Davies, the current manager, has earned praise for his work ethic and leadership.
Fan engagement has soared, with 20,000 season ticket holders and a 15,000-strong waiting list. As Birmingham prepare to face Ipswich the last club to achieve back-to-back promotions to the top flight the excitement is palpable. The new ownership duo is not just chasing success but redefining what it means to support Birmingham City, promising this journey is only just beginning.
