Appointment of Chris Davies as manager

Chris Davies takes the helm

In a significant move, Birmingham City have appointed Tottenham Hotspur assistant manager Chris Davies as their new manager on a four-year deal. Davies, who has a rich history of working under Brendan Rodgers at Swansea City, Liverpool, Celtic and Leicester City, steps into the role following the departure of Tony Mowbray. The club, recently relegated to League One, secured a compensation package with Spurs as Davies had two years left on his contract.

The search for a new leader

The process of finding a new manager was extensive, with Birmingham City considering more than 40 candidates, including notable names such as Frank Lampard and Alex Neil. The position became available on 21 May when Mowbray resigned due to ill health. Club owner and chairman Tom Wagner expressed his delight at the appointment, saying: “From our first meeting, it was clear that we are aligned in values ​​and share our ambition for the Blues.”

Wagner, along with co-owner Tom Brady and chief executive Garry Cook, served on the recruiting panel. Wagner also commented: “He is widely respected in the game and fulfills his objective of appointing an ambitious and progressive coach. He is motivated to help redefine the club, its culture and its playing identity.”

Davies’ vision for Birmingham

Chris Davies is eager to begin his tenure at Birmingham City. He said: “As soon as I spoke to Tom, Garry, Tom Brady and other members of the board, it was clear to me how passionate and committed the football management team are to bringing success to this club. I will give my all to build an attacking team that reflects this great city and most importantly to produce a team that our supporters can be proud of.”

A tumultuous time for Birmingham

Birmingham’s recent history has been marked by instability. Since Knighthead, the American patrons, took over at St Andrew’s 10 months ago, the club has seen seven different managers. The 2023-24 season began with John Eustace, who was replaced by Wayne Rooney in early October. Rooney’s tenure was short-lived due to poor performances, leading to his sacking in January.

Following Rooney’s departure, Academy coach Steve Spooner took over temporarily, followed by the appointment of Tony Mowbray. Despite a promising start, Mowbray had to take sick leave and Mark Venus stepped in. However, Venus also went on leave, which resulted in Gary Rowett overseeing the final eight games. Despite these efforts, Birmingham were relegated, marking only the third time in history that the club had been relegated to the third tier.

From promising player to respected coach

Chris Davies’ football journey began as a promising player at Reading, captaining the youth teams and winning caps for Wales up to under-19 level. However, an arthritic condition ended his playing career at 19, prompting a switch to coaching. His career includes roles at holiday camps, junior sessions and overseas placements in the United States and New Zealand.

Rodgers, who first brought Davies to coach at Swansea, went on to work with him at Liverpool, Celtic and Leicester. Their partnership produced significant success, including back-to-back Scottish doubles and an FA Cup win with Leicester. Davies’ recent experience at Tottenham Hotspur under Ange Postecoglou further strengthens his credentials.

Now entering his first managerial role, Davies is ready to bring his wealth of experience and fresh ideas to Birmingham City.