Despite finishing 17th last season, which was their best finish in seven years, the club has decided to part ways with head coach John Eustace. In a statement released on Monday, the West Midlands club expressed their intention to appoint a new manager who will establish a clear playing style characterized by fearlessness.
Rumors had circulated prior to Eustace's departure that Wayne Rooney was the preferred choice for the role. Rooney, who recently managed MLS side DC United, achieved 15 wins out of 53 matches during his tenure with the Washington-based team.
Last week, it was announced that Rooney and DC United had mutually agreed to part ways, as their working relationship had reached its conclusion. At that time, Rooney mentioned that he didn't have another job lined up, but there was an expectation that his next role would be in England.
According to The Times, the relevant parties have now reached an agreement, and Rooney is expected to be officially announced as Birmingham's new manager later this week. The report indicates that the 37-year-old has been offered a salary three times higher than what Eustace was earning before his departure from St Andrew's.
Since the international break has commenced, Birmingham officials aren't under immediate pressure to finalize the deal. However, the current expectation is that Rooney will take charge of the team from the dugout in their Championship match against the in-form Middlesbrough on October 21.
It's worth noting that Rooney has prior experience managing in English football, achieving 24 wins and 22 draws during his 85-match tenure with Derby County. During that period, Derby County faced challenges such as transfer embargoes and points deductions.
